by Jennifer Drogus / Contributing writer

A Target store may take over the old Wal-mart building at Valley Mall.

"There are plans for the demolition of the old Wal-mart building beginning as early as December for a new anchor store in the mall," said Billie Scott, corporate manager of Simon, the corporation that owns Valley Mall.

A representative at Valley Mall said, "Although there is no official confirmation from the Target Corporation, there is still a possibility that [Target] could be a candidate for settling in the old Wal-mart warehouse."

Sophomore Katie Pennisi is very enthusiastic about Target’s possible arrival. "I was used to having a Target in my hometown," she said. "I would be really excited that I now get to enjoy one while I am at school."

Sophomore Jackie Bos said, "Target has a selection of apparel that is slightly higher end in value than Wal-mart. I could definitely see myself shopping there for clothes and room décor."

Target already is a popular corporation throughout the United States, according to the Target Corporation. It ranked 23rd on the Fortune 500 list in 2004 and has stores in 47 states.

The idea of having a Target in Harrisonburg is yet another sign that the community is growing to accommodate shopping, according to Laurie Peterson, president of the Virginia Retail Merchants Association.

"Having a large retail corporation come into a developing community such as Harrisonburg can be a draw," she said. "It will bring people into the area, which will definitely boost business for surrounding shops."