SBJ.net Poll

Does Springfield need a fifth Wal-Mart Supercenter, proposed for the site of North Town Mall?

For poll results, click here.

What Readers Think

Yes, that area of town needs new development

Although I’ll be sad to see it go, that mall needs to be razed. It is a blight to a major intersection and gateway into Springfield. That existing Wal-Mart needs to be razed, too, as it shows its age badly and needs vast improvement. Why would anyone complain? There’s already a Wal-Mart there! Upgrading it can only make things better.

—Jonathan F. Tasset, Tasset Design Services Inc.

People in that area probably feel they (need it) if it helps them cut down on their driving. It’s all about convience.

—Byron Robison, Great Southern Insurance

I have been a Wal-Mart shopper for many years. Not necessarily “for” a big-box retailer, but Wal-Mart does have a formula for success: It has everything. As a resident near North Town Mall, I utilize both north-side Wal-Mart stores. … I have noted that regardless of time of day, the Kansas and I-44 location is always busy. North Town has similar business but lacks facilities to accommodate. Since the demise of the mall, a Supercenter could be well utilized in that location. Maybe Springfield has too many Wal-Mart stores; however, if the demand was not so great, maybe there wouldn’t be so many!

—Richard Ford, Redneck Computers

The Wal-Mart Supercenter on Kansas Expressway is causing such congestion at the I-44 interchange there. I am sure if there was an alternative Supercenter on the north side of town, some of the traffic would divert to it. 

—Kim Goza, Clarion Hotel

Yes, the city’s shopping traffic could support it

The location of this center is why I support it. The one on the northwest side is always packed and can use the relief of the northeast location. Also, this corner has been basically dead for many years and happens to be at one of the three primary gateways to Springfield (I-44/Kearney, I-44/Glenstone, I-44/U.S. 65). With northeast Springfield growing north of I-44, it will be a great convenience as well. Northeast Springfield also lost a grocer (Consumer’s) that was never replaced.

—Buck Van Hooser, Prestressed Casting Co.

Other

I have a mixed opinion. I don’t feel that there needs to be another Supercenter at the North Town Mall location, but I do like having a regular Wal-Mart there. I hate the Supercenters because it always takes forever to get a parking space, and they always have longer lines. For those of us who choose to buy our groceries elsewhere, the convenience of a smaller Wal-Mart is appreciated. I think they should just remodel and enlarge the current store, as it is very tired looking.

—Susan Sivils, Sifford Contract Interiors

Current Question

Which major Springfield construction project are you most looking forward to seeing completed, and why?

Vote at sbj.net/poll.