ST. ALBANS, Vt. (AP) Hundreds of people in Franklin County said they want a new Wal-Mart store built in St. Albans.

And they held a rally Oct. 4 where they were urged to persuade opponents to drop their appeals and let construction begin.

Wal-Mart supporter Bob Hughes of St. Albans said gas costs too much for residents to make the drive to the Williston Wal-Mart.

Developer Jeff Davis said the 14 permits needed to begin construction have been issued, but six of the permits have been appealed by four groups.

The giant retailer hopes to build a 160,000-sq.-ft. store north of downtown St. Albans.

One opponent is the Northwest Citizens for Responsible Growth. Spokeswoman Sue Prent said they want a smaller store closer to downtown.

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