The first phase of Wal-Mart's plan to stabilize the site of a landslide in Kilbuck received approval from the Department of Environmental Protection yesterday.

The plan will reshape the area where excavation for a shopping center development, anchored by a Wal-Mart, caused a landslide that closed Ohio River Boulevard for two weeks in September 2006. One lane of the road remains closed.

Wal-Mart will strategically reinforce the soil in the area, with a second and more comprehensive phase to be completed next year. The end result will be a green space with no future development.

Wal-Mart said in September it was abandoning plans to develop the site of the former Dixmont State Hospital.