Where open fields once were, concrete was poured and businesses were built. Now, with the arrival of Wal-Mart in Lucas, the city is being opened up to a whole new world of possibilities and more building, leaving the fields far behind.

“The city never envisioned a big box retailer like Wal-Mart at the intersection of Angel Parkway and W. Lucas Road,” Lucas Development Service Director Joseph Hillbourn said. “The property was intended to be commercial and on the city’s comprehensive plan as commercial since the 1980’s. Wal-Mart approached the city in 2006 about putting one of their retail establishment’s at the intersection of Angel Parkway and W. Lucas road.”

In the beginning, the city was wary about Wal-Mart coming into the city.

“The city initially was not excited about having Wal-Mart in our community but to date they have actually been a wonderful addition,” Hillbourn said. “Since Wal-Mart has gone in they have been a huge supporter for the city and its local organization donating money to the cities fire department and to Founder’s Day.”

Wal-Mart is thought to be the stepping stone to more commercial businesses entering Lucas in the future.

“I believe Wal-Mart will be the anchor for all commercial development along the Angel Parkway corridor between West Lucas Road and Estates Parkway,” Hillbourn said. “Currently there are two commercial businesses being built next to the existing Wal-Mart, a Kwik Lube and a Bank of America. Murphy USA (gas station) bordering Wal-Mart opened last week for business.”

There is already land set out for more development on the same strip of land as Wal-Mart.

“There is another large commercial tract at the corner of Southview and Parker Road that is currently undeveloped,” Lucas City Manager Dan Savage said. “ It will probably not develop until Parker Road is upgraded.  That may take three or four years.”

Some view these new additions as a positive thing to the area.

“I think it’s good,” Lucas resident Brian Debard said. “It’s just handier as long as they don’t go overboard with a lot.”

However, some residents of nearby areas are not so sure the development is completely positive.

“As Wal-Mart brings more traffic, convenience, and ultimately more commerce to our area,” resident Tammy Yeager said. “My main concern is that Lucas can maintain the smalltown charm and keep Country Club safe for families and specifically our teenage drivers.”

Economically however, the city of Lucas believes the addition was good.

“So far the impact by Wal-Mart has been positive,” Hillbourn said. “They have brought in sales tax revenue, jobs, and made donations to local schools, charities, and the city. Wal-Mart has proved to be a positive addition to the community.”

Businesses including Wal-Mart have increased the revenue of Lucas greatly.

“Wal-Mart is important to Lucas because of the retail opportunity it affords Lucas residents and those from surrounding communities,” Savage said. “Wal-Mart will also generate between $350,000 and $450,000 in sales tax revenue for the City of Lucas, which is 10 to 15 percent of the City of Lucas general fund budget.”

Residents of surrounding areas are eager to see what is yet to come.

“I am excited to see the new businesses like Wal-Mart,” Allen resident Kandis Ramos said. “Other than the increase in traffic, I appreciate the convenience they offer to residents in both Allen and Lucas.”