Opponents of a Merced Wal-Mart Distribution Center are taking their battle to court.

They filed a lawsuit Thursday morning in Merced County Court over the one-million-plus square-foot building which would be located at Childs Ave. and Tower Road in Merced.

The lawsuit alleges the city of Merced violated the California Environmental Quality Act when it approved a massive, controversial, Wal-Mart distribution center.

Opponents say the environmental hazard is too great, claiming it would translate into more trucks in and out of Merced; which would adversely affect the air quality.

However supporters say the region needs the jobs, with the city facing one of the state's highest unemployment rates. They argue that the 900 full time jobs expected to be available at the warehouse once it opens is what the community needs right now.

City leaders voted to approve construction on the distribution center last month.

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