In spite of the economic downturn that could be attributed with a number of businesses closing and forcing city and county governments to make cuts leaving one locally owned store is expanding and renovating due to increased business.

Anyone who passes by or frequents the local Claiborne Hill has noticed that in the past year the entire building has undergone renovation and expansion work. The idea to expand and renovate came after Hurricane Katrina brought a boom to business, which has yet to abate, said Claiborne Hill Store Manager Garrett Acquistapace.

Acquistapace said the work to renovate the store, which is owned by his parents, began around Christmas of 2008 and is now nearing completion.

Look for the expanded story in Thursday’s edition of the Picayune Item.