MOULTRIE, GA (WTXL) -- The city of Moultrie continues to develop, as more businesses set up shop.
Monday marked the opening of the city's first Starbucks store.
"I was happy," said resident Tonya McBurrows. "I was like, 'About time!' About time we got a Starbucks, because I need my vanilla bean!"
The drive-thru buzzed throughout the afternoon. Residents say the city's appeal has strengthened over time.
"It's getting better, now that we're getting new buildings and stuff, so more people can have more jobs," said resident Shyanne Young.
Right next to Starbucks, developers are building an AT&T store -- with construction ready to start in three to four weeks.
Further along Veterans Parkway, a shopping center is nearing completion, including the city's first Publix -- a 45,0000-square foot supermarket with 130 associates.
"We're constantly looking for good locations to make investments and to bring our goods and services, and Moultrie is one of those cities," said Publix regional community relations manager Dwaine Stevens.
The Moultrie Development Authority says Publix will be joined by a nail salon, pet store, barbershop, Japanese steakhouse and Ranchero's Fresh Grill.
"Our community is on the verge of a lot of growth and progress," said Tommie Beth Willis, interim president of the Moultrie-Colquitt County Chamber of Commerce, "and we're so super excited in what our future looks like -- and what it holds for job opportunities."
The development authority says the businesses in the new shopping center should be ready to open by mid-November.
Publix projects a grand opening for its store sometime before Thanksgiving.
