West Memphis, Ark. — Curtis Lumber officially broke ground on a $5 million store project in West Memphis on Wednesday. Project completion is expected by summer 2015 with a grand opening tentatively scheduled for July.

“This is a big step for Curtis Lumber,” said President/CEO BJ Curtis. “We’re excited about expanding into this area and look forward to serving residents, contractors and business owners in West Memphis, Marion and Downtown Memphis.”

Located on approximately four acres at 1001 Highway 77, the 32,000-square foot home center will feature a full-service Ace Hardware with convenient drive-thru lumber warehouse, garden center and flooring department.

Curtis plans to carry the full line of Ace Hardware brands, including Craftsman, DeWalt and Husqvarna, as well as products by Yeti and Big Green Egg.

Curtis Lumber will be continuing its proven track record of providing the best products and service in the area. “We already deliver materials into the Marion and West Memphis area and encourage new customers to shop with us now. However, having a brick and mortar location will enable an enhanced customer shopping experience, faster local delivery, and more efficient processing of returns.” said Curtis.

In addition to providing excellent products and service, Curtis Lumber is also very proud to be providing local employment.

“We’re looking to hire a mix of part-time and full-time employees for a total of 12 to 15 new hires,” added Curtis.

Curtis Lumber currently owns and operates Caldwell Lumber in Wynne, which will undergo a rebrand in the near future.

Curtis Lumber is a long-time partner with Butler Snow Advisory, who provides financial advisory and strategic consulting services to the growing company.  Other project partners include Suiter Construction Company, Inc., general contractor; Centennial Bank and Fidelity National Bank, financers; and SEACAP Financial, financial advisors.