Wal-Mart cancels plans to build 2 stores in DC

WASHINGTON (AP) - Retail giant Wal-Mart says it is dropping plans to build two new stores in northeast Washington, infuriating officials who say the area is desperate for retail shops.

Wal-Mart announced Friday that it is closing 154 stores in the U.S., with the goal of becoming more nimble in the face of increased competition.

The retailer also said in a statement Friday that opening two new stores in Washington “is not viable at this time.” All three of Wal-Mart’s existing stores in D.C. are expected to stay open.

WRC-TV reports (https://bit.ly/1J7QMeZ) that D.C. Attorney General Karl Racine is working with Mayor Muriel Bowser to explore the city’s options.