The new Walmart Express grocery store in Kemp is scheduled for a Jan. 28 opening.

Construction on the site on Highway 274 across from Kemp High School began about a month ago with the clearing of the land. The gas tanks for the service station at the store are scheduled for installation Nov. 12.

The opening of the store will mean that Kemp residents will be able for the first time in a decade to shop for fresh produce and other groceries without driving for 10 miles.

The store will include a delicatessen, fresh produce, other groceries and gas pumps.

After the installation of the gas tanks, the next step will be the laying of concrete for the operation.

City officials said once the initial base is complete, the "walls will go up fast" on the new store.

Mayor Laura Peace said the new store will offer an opportunity for weekend residents on their way to their getaways to buy products at good prices, but it will be particularly beneficial to Kemp's elderly and other disadvantaged residents.

The Kemp City Council rezoned the property that is under development from residential to commercial in June.

Walmart previously announced it plans to open 100 new Express stores and 200 Neighborhood Markets across the United States in 2015.