By Jessica Moore

Staff Writer

As many as six retailers are thinking about opening stores in Lewisburg, Director of Economic Development Greg Lowe told Industrial Development Board members Monday, without divulging any names.

Lowe was also optimistic about existing industries.

"Tiny expansions are taking place all throughout the industrial parks," he said.

There are still eight to 10 seven-acre tracts of land available for development in the I-65 Commerce Park on Mooresville Highway.

The main focus during the meeting was preparing the city of Lewisburg for prospective business owners' visits with beautification efforts such as tree planting, new signs for the industrial parks, and lighting at Exit 32.

According to Lowe, unemployment in Marshall County is stubbornly at 10 percent, however the labor force has increased by 240 workers. The number of those employed has gone up by 220 workers in one month's time.