Mayor Craig Snodgrass was on hand for the grand opening of Papa John's on Saturday to cut the ribbon for its official opening.

He says that many companies are calling High River home and there's more that are looking to the town as a viable business location.

"You look at the current economy and people are losing jobs and everything else, so for High River to be growing the way it is and opening new businesses and new employment opportunities, I think it says a lot about where High River sits right now and how well we're doing. A lot of people had written this town off three years ago at this time."

He says there's space slated for a grocery store for phase three of the new Sage Creek Village Shopping Centre at High Country Drive and Centre Street in the North West.

He says the new development has been a huge success for the community and adds there's more to come.

Among those in attendance was Paul Williams the Developer of the shopping centre and he says all the spaces are spoken for but one and that won't be for long.

"In phase one and two there is only one, there's only one vacancy left and we're dealing with a medical component and we're hoping to achieve a medical and professional use for that space."

He says they're attempting to secure a grocery store for phase three and adds some grocery chains are looking at the market place in High River but knows it'll take time.

He says he's pleased with how things have progressed to date and looks forward to bringing more businesses to the community.

Owner and Manager Kyle Zhang says the response has been overwhelming.

"I just want people to know that it's really exciting to be in High River and I heard from the Mayor that there's a lot of excitement about new developments in High River. The town is booming so we feel there's a very good opportunity for our business and we look forward to serving High River."

He says his delivery area is extensive and goes as far north as Aldersyde and adds there's many places they won't  go to make sure someone that wants a pizza gets one.

Owner of Papa Johns High River & High River Mayor Craig Snodgrass. Photo - Jeff McLenaghan.

L to R: Owner Kyle Zhang & Sage Creek Highwood Village Shopping Centre Developer, Paul Williams. Photo - Jeff McLenaghan.

Mayor Craig Snodgrass officially welcomes Papa John's to High River. Photo - Jeff McLenaghan.