National Parks Conservation Association Says Wal-Mart Should Move; Calls Orange County Board of Supervisors Vote "Disappointing"

Statement by NPCA Virginia Program Manager Catharine Gilliam

"We are extremely disappointed, although not surprised, by the Orange County Board of Supervisors vote to allow construction of the Wal-Mart superstore on historic land near an important Civil War battlefield here in Virginia.  This commercial development is improperly sited on land that is critical to understanding the National Park Service's interpretation of the Battle of the Wilderness for the American people. NPCA has actively participated and offered constructive suggestions to find alternatives that would protect the neighboring national park and allow a Wal-Mart to be built on less sensitive land. It is not necessary to desecrate the land where a horrific battle took place less than 150 years ago in pursuit of profit and pavement.

"Although members of the Orange County Board of Supervisors announced repeatedly that they would vote to approve Wal-Mart's application, even before the public process began, NPCA and our members, and other organizations in the Wilderness Battlefield Coalition, participated in the public process at every stage available. Despite last night's disappointing vote, we will continue to explore options to protect this important national park. This battle is not over yet. We continue to hold out hope that Wal-Mart will do the right thing by relocating its business, and respect and protect America's heritage and history."

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