By KATIE HURST/ Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO — City leaders celebrated the groundbreaking of a new economic force in Montevallo Sept. 30 at the site of the future Tractor Supply Company.

Tractor Supply Company, a national chain, has begun building their Montevallo store behind Huddle House off Highway 25. The store plans to open in the spring of 2011 said Area Manager Connie Holder.

The Montevallo mayor, city council members, county commissioner, representatives from the university and chamber of commerce were all on site for the store’s groundbreaking.

Mayor Ben McCrory said the store has a strong history of bringing economic growth to cities. He expects it will draw business to Montevallo from 30-40 miles away.

“Economically it means a lot to Montevallo,” he said. “It will be in our top four or five retailers almost immediately.”

The store provides more than tractor supplies, Holder said. Merchandise will include boots, animal feed, outdoor gear and clothing.

“We’ll provide general items needed for hobby farmers and people who like to be outdoors,” Holder said.

The store will also open jobs in Montevallo, which will help the city’s economy and the community, McCrory said.

State Rep. Cam Ward, R-Alabaster, also attended the groundbreaking of the store. Ward said the amount of revenue it will bring to Montevallo will provide a needed economic boost to the area.

“In these tough economic times, any time we have a new business open in the area it helps the whole community,” he said. “It also brings a little energy to the community. It lets people know things are still alive down here.”