HOUSTON—Wal-Mart is facing yet another fight. This time, it's with west Houston residents who complain they had no idea they were getting a big, new neighbor. Some say they are absolutely against the retail giant, while others say if you can’t beat them, join them.
Afton Village is considered by many to be a quiet neighborhood where people take pride in their homes and walk their beloved dogs through the streets.
But resident Joe Egan and many of his neighbors say the real top dog is the Walmart Super Center which is moving in down the block on Silber.
"They’re going to turn this pocket community basically into a driveway for Walmart," said Egan.
Another resident agrees and thinks it will cause unwanted congestion.
"I feel like we’re going to have a traffic issue," said Jesse Green.
What is causing the most concern for residents like Egan and Green is the fact there is no Silber exit for Walmart. They are afraid drivers will go to Antoine, then cut through their neighborhood in order to get to the giant store.
Despite their concerns, Walmart is going to start construction next week.
Some people like it.
"We’re enthusiastic about the Walmart store. It’s going to take care of a vacant piece of property that’s of no value to anyone," said John Pariza, Afton Village resident.
Those who don’t like it have little hope.
"We’re not going to have the legal teeth to fight these people," said Egan.
11 News checked with city bureaucrats and found out Walmart submitted its plans for this property last year and got approval in April. Still, many residents complain they didn’t find out about their new neighbor until last week.
