The new destination in discount shopping? Try National Harbor.
A deal has been struck to bring retail discounter Walmart to Oxon Hill, just a mile away from the upscale shops of National Harbor.
Peterson Companies, the delevoper that manages National Harbor and that will oversee this project hopes the new Walmart can open its doors by summer of 2013.
"Retailers are really starting to take notice of the strength of the local demographics," said Taylor Chess, a Peterson Cos. vice-president, "and are looking for opportunities in this market."
The National Harbor had bargain shoppers buzzing a few weeks ago when the arrival of an outlet mall run by Tangers Outlets was announced. In other East Coast locations, Tangers has retail parks that include stores like Abercrombie, the Gap, and Samsonite. The outlets, also in the development phase, would be located in Oxon Hill, about a mile from National Harbor.
The Walmart slated for Oxon Hill would have a different look from the traditional suburban big boxes - the design would feature plenty of brickwork, stone, and glass to give the low-price retailer a lighter feel, according to Peterson reps. The store would occupy 101,000 square foot , and sell groceries in addition to typical department store items.
Walmart has also announced plans to break ground inside D.C., but the exact locations of the four proposed stores is still up for debate. Mayor Vincent Gray issued an ultimatum of sorts to the company to build at Skylands Town Center in Ward 7, but then softened his stance.
Prince George's councilmember Obie Patterson has expressed support for the new Maryland Walmart, saying it will bring more jobs to the area.
