Plans for a proposed Walmart Shopping Center in the Hometown Square Mall along Route 309 are commencing, according to the prospective developer, who has paid almost $1.2-million to obtain the properties.

Zamias Services Inc., Johnstown, is moving the project forward, even without the financial packages it advocated, such as the Tax Increment Financing or the Local Economic Revitalization Tax Assistance programs.

The project is proposed for the former Laneco/T.J. Barts shopping center located three miles north of Tamaqua.