When a shopping center built during the 1960s loses most of its tenants, the appearance is that of a fading neighborhood. The trend is generally followed by a decline in the rest of the area. It happens in many communities; it happened in Escambia County.

The buildings were in dire need of repair but there were no income producing tenants to warrant the investment. The longer it stayed that way, the more difficult it became to attract new businesses. Subsequently, the entire surrounding community became economically challenged. Adding to that was the history of a dry cleaning establishment on the premises with its perceived questionable environmental issues.

By designating the site as a Brownfields Area, qualification was established with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) that made redevelopment funds available for the struggling community just on the outskirts of Pensacola. A successful proposal for USEPA a Brownfields Assessments grant provided the opportunity to determine the true environmental status of the property. With access to Economic Development Agency tax incentives available through the state Brownfields program, the Wal-Mart Corporation showed an interest in the site. When the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Environmental Site Assessments revealed minimal contamination, a purchase of the property was consummated.

With a multi-million dollar, private investment, a community eye-sore was removed, the neighborhood image improved, and 275 new, full time jobs were created to bolster a staggering community economy. In addition, the property value increased and the tax base was expanded.

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