Fast food restaurant Whataburger has broken ground on its latest franchise at 1309 South 5th St. in Leesville.

Whataburger President Chris Johnson, Leesville Mayor Rick Allen and Greater Vernon Chamber President Michael Bealer along with Leesville City Administrator Patti Larney and council members Phillip Hunt, Alice Guess, Willie Mae Kennedy and Chris Robertson shared the shovels to begin the project.

Opening of the new restaurant is expected for this September. It will be a 24-hour operation, and is expected to employee at least 70 staff members.