The Town of Falkville is getting a Walmart Express.

Steps were taken by the town’s planning commission and zoning board of adjustment to make that happen at back-to-back special meetings on Thursday.

The planning commission voted 6-1 to grant a certificate to subdivide a 1.9 acre tract from the Robert Summerford farm and the zoning board of adjustment awarded a variance on the number of parking spaces required.

The town’s first complete grocery store will offer fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, frozen foods and a wide variety of staple groceries, in addition to a self-service fuel island, according to Jason Toole, an engineer with RAS Land & Cattle Co.

This store will be built on Hwy 55W, across from Falkville Post Office. It will be a new design that Walmart is introducing to Alabama.

Toole said construction would begin after engineering drawings are approved by the planning commission and should be in operation within six months.

Tom Summerford spoke against the awarding of a certificate to subdivide.

“I know we need a grocery store,” he stated, “but I oppose where it is going. I’m afraid it will lower the value of our homes. I’d like to see it go across Highway 31, backed up to the CSX railroad tracks.”

Rhona Summerford, whose home is located on adjoining property, asked if a fence or other structure would be used to shield the store from private homes in the neighborhood.

Poole answered in the negative.

Town attorney Larry Madison instructed zoning board members that a certificate to subdivide is justified as long as public safety and heath are not an issue.

“This is something we’ve needed for years,” said Mayor Bob Ramey. “Administrations past and present have worked hard to attract a grocery store and with Robert Summerford’s help it’s finally falling into shape.

“We’re overjoyed,” he added. “It’s going to be a big boost for our tax structure.”