While it took longer than expected, one of the most eagerly anticipated store openings is finally happening.

SLO Chamber members will be invited this week to a special May 19 sneak preview of Miner's Ace Hardware with the official grand opening a few days later.

In January, Miner's announced its intention to open a store at the former Pacific Coast Home and Garden Center on Santa Barbara Street in SLO in March, but the extensive remodeling took a few months longer than expected.

The 20,000-square-foot store will carry about 50,000 different items, about twice the inventory of the previous store.