The “sold” sign on a plot of land facing North Main Street makes it almost completely official — Walmart is coming to Atmore.

Atmore Mayor Jim Staff said that DBS Corporation, of Chattanooga, Tenn., would serve as the general contractor for the construction project, which could begin as early as next week. Walmart plans to build a 70,000-square-foot facility on the property, which is located between the Oak Hill Cemetery and the Atmore Realty headquarters.

Staff said it is his understanding that Atmore’s Walmart will be similar to many stores, except it will not have an auto care center. He said that the company has not announced any official job figures, but it could possibly have as many as 100 employees.

“We’re very excited about the job opportunities it will bring to our area,” he said.

Staff said that most of the permitting and planning with the city is complete, although the business permit had not yet been purchased as of Tuesday. Once that permit is purchased, construction can begin at any time.

Staff said that the city has been reaching out to several department store companies, including Target, K-Mart and Walmart, ever since Atmore’s original K-Mart closed in 2003.

“This is going to be a great business for our community and we’re very excited that they’re coming,” he said. “As far as I know, they’re planning to break ground next week. They’re really getting after it, at this point.”

The proposed plan for the building’s construction will have its entrance facing North Main Street, with the parking lot in front.

There will be a masonry wall on the north side of the property, to separate it from the cemetery.