Moon supervisors have approved the land development plan that will enable Wal-Mart to convert the West Hills Shopping Center on University Boulevard into a Super Center.

Construction could begin by late summer, said Wal-Mart attorney Alan K. Sable, of Pepper Hamilton LLP of Pittsburgh.

The supervisors' vote was 3-2, with Marvin Eicher and Michael Hopper dissenting.

Mike Petro, one of about 75 residents at last Thursday's meeting, asked the supervisors how many of them were around in 1963 when West Hills Shopping Center was very busy.

"That location couldn't handle the traffic then. How is it going to handle a Wal-Mart?" he asked. "See what traffic will be like at Wal-Mart on Black Friday. The location is totally wrong."

Anthony Mester, of Moon, said he was concerned about traffic, specifically tractor-trailers and trucks. He said they would be coming from Sewickley, Leetsdale, Ambridge and Aliquippa.

Jerry Pearl, of Moon, said he objected to the Wal-Mart also because of traffic concerns and the impact to small businesses.

Moon developer Ron Tarquinio said traffic wouldn't be an issue and he supported the project.

"Wal-Mart is one of the only profitable retailers," he said. "We're going to have better products and more competition."

Mike McWilliams, owner of West Hills Nissan, said that construction of Wal-Mart will be only a short-term inconvenience and that the store will improve the appearance of the area.

"I'm a frequent shopper at Wal-Mart," said Randy Ellision, of Moon. "I applaud the supervisors for asking questions. I'd like to see competition for Giant Eagle. If you don't like Wal-Mart, don't shop there."

After the meeting, Mr. Sable said, "It's been a long road. We are pleased with the results."