In the world of economic development, image isn’t the only thing, but it’s at the top of the list.

On more than one occasion, this newspaper has touted the need for improvements on areas that are some of the first to be viewed by visitors. Whether that is the road conditions of U.S. Hwy. 80, the upkeep of areas through Selmont or the condition of downtown businesses, we have been consistent in our message that you truly do have one chance at a first impression.

It is with this first impression in mind that we celebrate the news this week of the proposed new terminal at Craig Field and congratulate the Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority for making the investment in improving these facilities.

For most residents of Selma and Dallas County, Craig Field is a facility that is set off the highway is home to a number of industries. But listen to the stories of the companies that use the airport for corporate business or the decision makers who use the facility for their business’ aircraft or their own, and you quickly realize just how important a role this airport plays.

True, it is not the economic engine it was when it was and Air Force training facility. The mere numbers alone are not the same, but the potential impact is no different.

The industries who now house their operations on the grounds of Craig account for key jobs in this area and provide key parts and ingredients to other operations throughout the Black Belt and state.

As Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority executive director Menzo Driskell said Monday, the new terminal at Craig will be a fantastic “front door” to the city of Selma. It will truly be a great first impression.