Penfield, N.Y. - Demolition began on the redevelopment at Baytowne Plaza in Penfield Thursday.
Construction on the proposed "Street of Shops" portion of the plan is expected to start immediately.
The project, which began with the former Tops building getting demolished Thursday, will eventually include a Walmart Supercenter and new retailers.
The plan has been in the works since 2006, but working out a compromise on the zoning rules forced a delay.
"It's going to bring in tax revenue, jobs for everybody and make this plaza alive again," said Pro Nail owner, Holly Phan.
Some living near the plaza do not share the same enthusiasm, however, developer John DiMarco says there's a solution.
"Between the residential neighborhoods, the plaza, is going to be a 400 foot, forever wild, 12 acre piece of conservation easement. I think that's the greatest transition to protect those neighbors," he says.
The shopping center renovation is expected to be finished in the summer of 2013, while the expansion and Walmart phase will last through 2015.
