Chick-fil-A officially open for business

The red ribbon is cut as Chick-fil-A's 2031st restaurant officially opened on Montgomery Highway Thursday.

The new location officially opened at 6:30 a.m., and Operator Rodney Jackson said he and his staff were overwhelmed with the response and turnout.

The Vestavia Hills Chamber of Commerce welcomed Jackson and the Chick-fil-A staff with a traditional ribbon cutting. Chick-fil-A representatives had a few traditions of their own, including the ceremonial "First Bite" of a chicken sandwich from the restaurant, which was taken in unison by Chamber members and other supporters.

Mayor Butch Zaragoza thanked the Jackson family for their commitment to the community, and reminded everyone that this Chick-fil-A is 11 years in the making, after a 2005 survey indicated that the franchise was the most-wanted by Vestavia Hills residents.

The Vestavia Hills Fire Department, which has a station right next door, was also on hand to raise an American flag, as well as send a few parachuting plush cows into the air.

"We're going to be the best neighbor we can be," Jackson said.

The new Chick-fil-A is located at 513 Montgomery Highway, and is open from 6:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday.