The dozens of construction workers, the sound of hammering, and the temporary shifting of store merchandise should prove to be minor inconveniences to shoppers when the renovations to Belk are completed this fall.

The new, well-lit, 28,000-square-foot addition to the Men's Store, now known as the Belk Men's, Home and Kids Store, is home to the Children's and Home Departments.

The Children's Department carries newborn, infants, toddlers, girls' sizes 4 to 16, boys' sizes 4 to 20 and children's shoes. Customers shopping for toys will find a line of sturdy wooden toys by Melissa and Doug, as well as rocking horses, tea sets and more.

The expansive Home Department allows for better display of bedding and bath. Exclusive to Belk is the "Biltmore Collection." Adjacent to the Home Department, there is a complete line of luggage guaranteed to please a novice or a well-seasoned traveler.

The sales associates in the China, Crystal and Housewares Department are knowledgeable and eager to help a bride-to-be select her items for the Belk bridal registry, a store spokesperson said.

The Men's Department will continue to carry a superior and diverse line for men and young boys, as well as shoes and accessories. The newest fall fashions are now making their way to the sales floor, a spokesperson said.

The Main Store, now know as the Belk Women's Store, is being renovated to expand existing departments, as well as make room for additional lines of upscale clothing, a news release said. The store will continue to carry cosmetics, fragrances, jewelry, accessories and shoes.

Store Manager Gordon Willis said the new addition now gives Belk 108,000 square feet to better serve and meet the demands of its customers.

A grand reopening is scheduled for Nov. 3.

For more information, interested persons can call 692-6088, ext. 210.