Monsey, NY - Ramapo Planners To Discuss Wal-Mart Proposal

Monsey, NY - Despite opponents' claims that a proposed Wal-Mart Supercenter would have negative economic and environmental impacts, the developer says the 215,000-square-foot Wal-Mart on the 22-acre former Rockland Drive-In Theater site, would add 500 jobs to the area and could revitalize the shopping district.

"This is a fantastic site. It truly hits the mark," said Jerrold Birmingham, managing director of the 45-year-old family-owned development company. "The area is custom-made for retail. People want businesses on Route 59," and its expected the project to cost more than $20 million and open by spring 2007.

But some local officials and residents say the store is wrong for the area because it would negatively affect traffic, the environment and the economy.
"You may gain 500 jobs, but you're going to lose 1,500," said Spring Valley Mayor George Darden, one of the project's most vocal critics. He said the Wal-Mart would put smaller stores out of business along Route 59.

The town's Planning Board, which voted last month to have the developer provide a more in-depth environmental study, will hold a public session tomorrow to determine what issues need to be addressed in the draft environmental impact statement.