Construction began today November 21, 2013, on the new “Family Dollar” store in Rising Star.  Local dirt contractor Steve Wilson began excavation of the 1.2 acre site with his bulldozer, as a fine mist of rain began.

The old rock building now located on the site will be removed to make way for the new store, which will be east of the Laundry Mat. A four foot foundation opening for the building measuring 80×100 foot  will involve excavation, fill dirt, and removal of the existing structure.

The new store will face Hwy 36, and the entrance to the concrete parking lot will also be on Hwy 36.  City workers Greg Clay, Clay Ireland, and Michael Nall were also on site, routing a new gas line and installing a meter (pictured above).

Rick Mooney, “site superintendent” stated with pride that “we (are only) on site for 120 days and we are done.”   With that statement, it looks like Family Dollar in Rising Star will have an opening day in early January.  Photos above and below, of the building site, provided by Laura Quinn.

Excavation of the building site begins.

Gas line installation.

Abandoned rock house that will be demolished to make room for the new store.