Williams Baptist College announced on Monday that it is selling the Ridge Center in Walnut Ridge, paving the way for a new business in town.  With the signing of the papers, an investment group is taking over the shopping center and is preparing to move Tractor Supply Co. into part of the retail space.

“Williams Baptist College is proud to be a part of anything that is good for our community,” said Williams president, Dr. Tom Jones.

Jones noted that the college received the Ridge Center property six years ago, and has been “blessed with extraordinary tenants over the years.”  He added that proceeds from the sale would help fund a residence hall on the WBC campus, which he called a “major step forward for the college.”

About 15 to 20 jobs are expected to come with the new business.  Tractor Supply will occupy a vacant retail space that was the former site for Walmart in Walnut Ridge.

“The announcement that Tractor Supply Co. will be remodeling a portion of the Ridge Center in Walnut Ridge will provide a huge boost to our local economy. Jobs will be created and a new tax base will be established. That tax base will provide support for all the residents of Lawrence County,” said Walnut Ridge Mayor Charles Snapp.

Construction is expected to begin later this month, added Snapp.

Williams is a four-year, liberal arts college located at Walnut Ridge.

“WBC president Dr. Tom Jones expresses his gratitude to those involved in the selling of the Ridge Center.”

“Plans for what the new space will look like when Tractor Supply Co. moves into part of the Ridge Center.”