put a store in a niggerhood.

Prichard Wants Wal-Mart

Prichard Mayor Ron Davis says he's been working hard to attract more businesses to The area. He's now focusing on one company, in particular, the largest retailer in the country.

"I have been trying to get a Wal-Mart in Prichard for some time," said Ron Davis, Mayor of Prichard.

Davis says Wal-Mart would bring jobs and create a bigger tax base in the city.

"They are placing them throughout Mobile and surrounding areas. In a lot of areas they don't want a Wal-Mart. So why not go to an area that's inviting you," he said.

The mayor is trying to build support for a Wal-Mart. Petitions are going up in city offices and churches.

The push for Wal-Mart is the latest step in the city's struggle to improve.

Several projects are now underway. Old buildings have been demolished, abandoned cars have been towed away, the awnings that once lined storefronts in downtown were torn down, and business are getting fresh coats of paint.

The mayor says more improvements are on the way.

· Lovejoy loop will become a two way street.
· Wilson Avenue will become a two lane street to allow diagonal parking.
· Signs will help lead customers to businesses.

"These are things that have to be done. We have to clean up the city and we have to get rid of the junk. Once we do that people will take a better look at the city," said Davis.

He hopes Wal-Mart takes another look at Prichard

After the petitions are full the city plans to send them to Wal-Mart headquarters to show there is support for a Wal-Mart in Prichard.