FRANKTON — The eighth Dollar General store in Madison County is expected to open in Frankton later this month, giving the town its first retail shop.

Currently, the 1,900 residents of the small community rely on the local grocery store, Bauer’s, and area filling stations for all immediate needs.

For larger purchases, including clothing and house wares, residents must travel south to Anderson.

Soon, the local dollar store will provide an array of everyday items for area residents.

“It’s going to mean a lot to the town as far as income, employment and revenue,” said Jack Alexander, president of the Frankton Town Council.

The 9.014-square-foot store will be located at the corner of 11th and Clyde streets in Frankton, just across the street from the Ricker’s location.

“We will hire from within the community,” said Emily Weiss of Dollar General, adding that the store would offer between six and 10 jobs.

According to Howard Sowers, former president of the Frankton Town Council, Dollar General approached the town of Frankton last summer after purchasing land from a local resident. Some residents had concerns about the store.

“The majority of the people was real proud to have something like that come to Frankton,” Sowers said. “There were a few neighbors who had questions. After they explained what was going on and the stipulations we put in the building permit, I think they were OK with it.”

Across the county, there are currently seven other Dollar General stores, including two in Anderson, and one store apiece in Chesterfield, Lapel, Elwood, Pendleton and Alexandria.

The Frankton location will the 303rd Dollar General Store in Indiana.

“We look at a number of factors, including demographic trends and traffic patterns when considering a new store location,” Weiss said of the company’s decision to build in Frankton. “Frankton was a great match for Dollar General.”

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