The Supercenter was a cornerstone of developer Mitchell Schneider's plan for Steelyard Commons three years ago. The project was nearly derailed after Cleveland City Council members balked on approving it. They bringing Walmart to Cleveland would threaten other established businesses - namely, Dave's Supermarket, which has eight grocery stores in the city and whose employees work under a union contract.
But ultimately, in 2005 then-Mayor Jane Campbell and Schneider pushed the deal through, now the Wal-Mart Supercenter is set to open Wednesday.
Store Manager Chris Jones says the store will be a community fixture for businesses and neighbors, and dismisses the fear of competition.
JONES: Sometimes we get accused of coming in and shutting down small mom and pops. But in fact if you really look at it Wal-Mart can coexist with small business inside the marketplace.
In addition to selling clothing, home supplies, and a full selection of groceries, the supercenter will offer basic car service, and include a Money Center that will cash checks and sell pre-paid credit cards to people who can't afford bank accounts.
Tasha Flournoy 90.3.