New restaurants could be start of economic recovery

With Bojangles opening this week, Sonic scheduled to open by the end of the month and another fast-food chain planning to place a franchise in Russellville, the options for dining out are steadily growing.

This is great for the community for several reasons.

It gives people more variety, shows businesses are interested in Franklin County and — most importantly — is a sign the economy is starting to recover.

With three restaurants opening in such a short period of time, dozens of jobs will be created to help to slightly reduce the local unemployment rate.

The new establishments can also be used as a tool for recruiting new industries, as potential companies want to place their businesses in locations where employees will be happy. Having a variety of restaurants is one thing prospective industries notice.

Please get out and support the new eating options available and show that Russellville and Franklin County is interested in supporting new business so we can put the worst part of the recession in the rearview mirror and move into a prosperous future.