What’s happening with Wal-Mart?

The big screen at the Rockland Drive-In Theater has been silent for years, but a new proposal for the construction of a Wal-Mart Supercenter on the 22-acre site on Route 59 is generating some very vocal opinions from local residents and merchants.

Citing everything from the impact of increased traffic on Route 59 to how it would affect the environment, and the livelihood of local small businesses, more than 50 people showed up at a recent a Ramapo Planning Board meeting to get details of how the project is progressing.

The project for a 215,000-square-foot SuperCenter is under development by National Realty & Development Corp. of Purchase. It would include a gas station and tire service area, and a full-service grocery store. The developer says the development would add 500 jobs to the area. The beauty of the parcel, they say, is it’s already zoned for this type of use and, basically, is a giant parking lot.

Rockland already has a Wal-Mart, down Route 59 in Airmont in the Shoprite Shopping Center.

George Darden, mayor of Spring Valley, is one who is vehemently opposed to the project, citing concerns on the affect it would have on that village’s current plans to revitalize its downtown.

What’s Your Opinion?
What’s your opinion on the proposed Wal-Mart SuperCenter on Route 59? We’d like to include them in the next issue of RBD. Send us your thoughts at editorial@rbdigest.com. Please include name, address, and a telephone contact so we may verify your responses.

What's new in Rockland County?

• Macy’s will replace Filene’s at the Palisades Center Mall this fall. Under post-merger plans announced by Federated Department Stores Inc., Macy’s will replace locally familiar names including Filene’s in the Northeast. Belle Shoes, a women’s shoes store is new, and there are plans for a bowling alley as well.
  
• Since its opening earlier this year, Opus Entertainment, also in the Palisades Center Mall, continues to draw interest from consumers and the corporate sector. A media and entertainment company, Opus provides a unique, high-quality and interactive music experience, which is available for corporate events.
  
• Nanuet Mall: There are rumors of a $50 million facelift for this Simon Corporation property anchored by Boscov’s, Macy’s and Sears. Pending plans could include a movie theater, restaurants, and major retailers.
  
• Bananarama, a children’s party place opened in January in Pearl River, with activities like karaoke and potato-sack races. Also in Pearl River is the new Danu Gallery, an Irish-themed store with gifts like silver jewelry, pottery.
  
• A development company has announced plans to build two four-story hotels in Orangetown, to be called Orangeburg Commons. Orangetown LLC’s plans also include two retail buildings, a bank, and a restaurant. Stay tuned.
  
• A brand new CVS pharmacy at 280 S. Main Street in New City opened earlier this year. RBD

If you have a new retail business opening or expansion in Rockland County, let us know so we can include the news in this section. Send the specifics, including photos, to editorial@rbdigest.com.