It’s always great to see a local business succeed and grow, and Lawrence should celebrate the expansion and new jobs at Amarr Garage Door Group in the East Hills Business Park.

As the first phase of its expansion project, Amarr began use of 12 new loading docks this week. The company estimates it will add 80 full-time jobs at the plant over the next three years.

In the current tight business climate, cities like Lawrence have a new appreciation for their existing businesses. Economic development officials know how hard it is to attract new businesses and jobs to their communities and it pays to support and promote the businesses they already have.

A new company coming to a community often spurs publicity and celebration, but expansions like the one under way at Amarr also are an important source of new jobs and taxes for a community — and cause for continuing celebration by Lawrence.