Usually a Wal-Mart re-opening doesn't make the news.  However, this store has been closed since Hurricane Wilma slammed into the area in October 2005.  I personally don't make it to this store...(I'm not much into most Wal-Marts)...but I find it really strange that it's making the Sun-Sentinel as newsworthy.  Especially since there is a newer store just down the street.  This store is located on W. Oakland Park Blvd. and University. 

They are saying that after the storm...the damage was assessed and then the inspectors came.  They said that everything had to be brought up to the current bundling codes.  (the store originally opened in 1989).  $20 million later and finally the store is ready to open. (and over 2 years later).  The store is said to have an 'updated look', an expanded grocery section and more checkouts. 

What I actually heard was that this store was supposed to be closed for good after the storm and a new one built close to this location.  However, since Wal-Mart has not been doing so well in sales...Corporate has decided to scale back the number of new stores and renovate older ones.  Probably a smart move.  The old stores look horrible and I'd rather drive the extra miles to a Target.  They've also planned a few Wal-Mart Neighborhood Markets in the area in old (closed) Winn-Dixie locations...but the one in Pompano looks like it won't happen.  (Neighborhood Markets are more of a grocery store.  We saw them in Vegas...actually kind of nice.)

I find it a bit funny that they are sticking to the 2 year renovation story.  Macy's at the Galleria Mall only took just over a year and they totally rebuilt the inside.