Norfolk, Va. - Walmart has big plans for the Broadcreek neighborhood in Norfolk.
City leaders tell NewsChannel 3 that a proposal is in the works that would bring a Walmart grocery store to the area as well as a Wawa convenience store.
The old General Foam Plastic building at Princess Anne and Ingleside has been for sale and abandoned for some time.
Vice-mayor Anthony Burfoot says the property recently sparked Walmart’s interest.
“Walmart Corporation is very excited about the site and the location and serving that community,” he says.
Broadcreek and the surrounding residential areas don’t have a major grocer within walking distance.
“This is something I’ve been working on for a long time – promising the community we would have a grocery store,” Burfoot says.
The plan that is yet to be presented to City Hall for rezoning and approval, will also include a Wawa convenience store and gas station at the site.
“It’s a win, win all the way around,” Burfoot says.
He believes the city was able to attract retailers like Walmart and Wawa because it invested in rebuilding the residential areas of Broadcreek – an investment he feels is about to pay off.
“No city money involved. Actually the city is going to gain additional taxes from this project,” he says, “I know the community will be excited because it’s a long time coming.”
If the plan makes its way through the planning commission and council, Walmart shoppers may be roaming the aisles in 16 to 18 months.
