By Charlotte Smith
Bladen County, often affectionately referred to as the “Mother County,” is on the cusp of transformation and prosperity as the Live, Work, Play Project takes shape. This strategic plan, designed to propel the county towards growth and development, is set to become a cornerstone of the region’s future.
At the forefront of this ambitious endeavor is Chuck Heustess, the Bladen County Economic Development Director, who has long championed the cause of regional growth. The strategic plan for Elizabethtown, the county seat, highlights four fundamental priorities that will underpin Bladen County’s growth:
1. Housing: Ensuring the availability of adequate and affordable housing options for residents, providing a stable foundation for the community.
2. Tourism: Showcasing the area’s natural beauty and attractions to attract visitors and bolster the local economy.
3. Healthcare Improvement and Expansion: Strengthening healthcare facilities and services to meet the evolving needs of the growing community.
4. Education/Daycare: Investing in educational facilities and daycare options to support working families, nurturing the county’s future leaders.
Dane Rideout, Town of Elizabethtown Manager, emphasizes that the project’s primary aim is to support the workforce, benefiting essential professionals such as teachers, manufacturing workers, and firefighters. The Live, Work, Play Project, a five-year plan, is a key part of this strategy.
Rusty Worley, Town Planner with the Town of Elizabethtown, describes the project as the creation of a “walking, working community,” a vibrant place where residents can live, work, and play seamlessly.
The core of the Live, Work, Play Project revolves around housing. It includes the construction of over 200 homes, ranging from one to four bedrooms, offered at different price points. Initially, these homes will be available for rent, with a future plan to make them available for sale.
This initiative represents a public-private partnership, with SfL+a Architects already working on the housing plan. The town received $15 million from the new state budget to support the water and sewer infrastructure required for the project’s success.
The project is divided into phases, with Phase I serving as a critical benchmark for future developments. The houses will incorporate a vertical GEO thermal system complemented by solar power, resulting in a 40% reduction in energy costs. The project aims to explore various energy-efficient options, making use of available grant funds to harness modern, sustainable technology.
Addressing the housing issue is of paramount importance for Bladen County, according to the officials, and this project is poised to alleviate the housing challenges that the community faces. Collaboration with Bladen Community College and other stakeholders positions the county to become a leader in the aerospace industry, an investment heavily backed by the community.
According to Heustess, this initiative is forward-thinking, preparing the region for the anticipated influx of jobs from the aviation industry.
Moreover, the project is committed to aiding Wounded Warriors, with specially designed housing to accommodate veterans with mobility issues. Alex Munroe from Cape Fear Winery and Stephen Busch are collaborating to ensure the highest quality of life housing for these deserving individuals.
Residents of the Live, Work, Play housing development will enjoy an array of amenities, including a pool and a pickleball court. The development will adhere to strict covenants, ensuring a clean and appealing living environment for working people, retirees, and veterans.
Rideout underscores the significance of maintaining the vibrancy of the downtown area. The housing development will not only enhance the economy of our retail stores but will also offer a pool of skilled labor for local employers.
Addressing essential needs, fostering economic growth, and supporting those who have served our nation, the Town of Elizabethtown and Bladen County, North Carolina, is setting the stage for a remarkable transformation. This project is not just about creating a community; it’s about creating opportunities and a thriving future for all.
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