Traffic concerns among Moon residents over a proposed Wal-Mart have prompted supervisors to have township engineer Mike Meyer conduct a traffic study.

Wal-Mart is proposing a store on the site of the West Hills Shopping Center at the intersection of University Boulevard and Brodhead Road.

Supervisors Chairman Tim McLaughlin told Wal-Mart representatives April 30 that he didn't want to go to his grave knowing that this board was responsible for creating a traffic gridlock.

Supervisor Marvin Eicher voted against spending money for the study but said repeatedly that he believed that Wal-Mart's traffic study was skewed. He dissented in the board's 4-1 vote.

Mr. Meyer estimated that the study would cost $2,000 to $3,000.

Mr. McLaughlin was concerned that shoppers would come to Moon from all over the region. He said he could envision people coming across the Sewickley Bridge into Moon, creating traffic problems there, too.

He even suggested that Wal-Mart look into buying the property behind West Hills Shopping Center for an access road.

Supervisor Michael Hopper said that he, too, has heard concerns from residents about traffic and safety.

Wal-Mart representatives unveiled a revised plan for the building. Instead of the crushed stone facade, the exterior would consist of panels of Trespa, a material that is designed not to attract dirt or be affected by sunlight, rain or moisture.

The township continues to insist on a brick facade even though the Trespa is more expensive.

The building would have eyebrow arches and canopies, and trees in planters would be on the site. Wal-Mart representatives have described it as having a high-end appearance.

The hearing on Wal-Mart's request for a preliminary development plan will be continued June 4.