New Wal-Mart coming to Grand Strand

By Thema Ponton
WBTW News 13 Reporter
Published: June 23, 2008

A new Wal-Mart is on its way to the Grand Strand.

The new Wal-Mart Supercenter will be built off of S.C. Highway 501 in the Carolina Forest area.

Bill Barnett, Managing Director of Faison Enterprises, Inc., a privately-owned real estate development and investment company said the Supercenter will be the anchor store in Myrtle Ridge Crossing.

Barnett said there will also be 4 junior anchor stores and specialty shops. 
Thomas Gray, President of the Myrtle Trace home owner’s association said when he heard a new Wal-Mart was going to be built near his subdivision, he didn’t believe it.

But since it’s a reality, Gray said he hopes the retail giant follows all the rules and regulations, mainly when it comes to making provisions for the traffic, but also any problems it may cause people driving in and out of Myrtle Trace.

“Because our people go right to the back of where they’re going to put the wal-mart so I’m hoping they’re going to look into that.“ said Gray.

Mike Barbee, with the South Carolina Department of Transportation said that Wal-Mart is responsible for making improvements when it comes to making changes to meet the level of service when it comes to traffic.
 
That includes traffic signals and turn lanes.
 
Barnett said Wal-Mart will make changes in the area, some of which include turning lanes and road widening.

The center is scheduled to open in spring of 2009.