Planners are inviting the public to weigh in on the growth and development of a 28,000-acre area of southwestern Wake County. The 44-square-mile Western Wake area is bordered by Chatham and Harnett counties and includes Harris Lake and the Jordan Lake watershed.
This is the fourth of seven distinct areas the County is focusing on as part of its new comprehensive plan, known as PLANWake, which charts a course to guide growth over the next 10 years. The Wake County Board of Commissioners has already approved area plans for Lower Swift Creek, Middle Creek and Lower Neuse. These area plans determine what type of built environment – the homes, buildings, streets, open spaces, farms and infrastructure – is envisioned for the future at the local level.
In addition to the County’s area plan, the Town of Apex is updating long-range plans for the Western Big Branch Area, and the Town of Fuquay-Varina recently kicked off the development of its 2040 Comprehensive Transportation Plan.
Community feedback is needed
Community input is a major component of the planning process. Insight from those who live, work and play in this area will drive projects that are developed with their needs, desires and visions in mind.
“Residents’ participation in this process isn’t just important, it’s imperative,” said Susan Evans, vice chair, Wake County Board of Commissioners. “Their voices will truly help shape the future of the community.”
There are several ways to participate, and more opportunities may be added in the future. Visit wake.gov/WW to:
- View an interactive map and share ideas.
- Take a community survey.
- Register to attend a virtual public meeting on May 21.
- Sign up for email updates.
Residents can also contact staff directly at areaplan@wake.gov or 919-856-6310 (option 8).
Planners will spend the next several months talking to the community and expect to have a draft plan ready for review by late 2024/early 2025. Full details can be found at wake.gov/WW, and information about the overall area planning process is located at wake.gov/areaplans.
