Where are we in this process?

Phase 3 (Final Recommendations) of the project is underway. In this phase, the recommendations will be refined and prioritized. A draft report will be created and presented at several public meetings. 

Community Engagement

Engagement with the community of landowners and residents of the SESSA is the cornerstone of this study. The two previous phases of community engagement in the SESSA are cataloged online. View results from the most recent and previous surveys. The Phase III survey will be open until June 30. There is a Phase Three community meeting that can be watched online using the passcode:  TiY?Qq6M

Stay tuned for future engagement opportunities by subscribing to Southeast Study (see sign-up box) or contact Don Belk, project manager for more information on the study. 

Why do a Southeast Study?

The Southeast Special Area Study is a response to guidance from the 2030 Comprehensive Plan. The Plan influences development and conservation decisions through policies such as the Future Land Use Map, which describes the desired future land use. In this map, several Special Study Areas are identified as areas that will require more focused community outreach to determine the preferred land use pattern. The Southeast Study is focused on one of the Special Study Areas.

In addition, the study area is experiencing changing conditions that make the time ripe for thoughtful planning. Located at the periphery of several cities and towns – including Raleigh, Garner, Knightdale, Wendell, and Clayton – what is now rural in nature will be affected by the nearby growth and development. This includes growing infrastructure, such as public and private utilities and transportation projects like the I-540 connection. Major questions arise as to how this growth will affect natural resources inside the study area, including the Neuse River, N.C. Mountains-to-Sea Trail, State-recognized natural and cultural heritage sites, and remaining active agricultural land. The goal of this planning process is to involve the community in shaping a response to these changing conditions.

How do I get involved?

Participate in public meetings or if you can’t make it to one, you can lend your voice online. Check this page or follow us on social media (Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram) to receive notifications once dates are set.

And please don’t hesitate to reach out to Don Belk, the project manager, with any questions, comments, or concerns. Do you have a community group, business, or event you would like us to attend to provide more information? We’d love to hear from you!

Why Should I Get Involved? 

Plans such as the Southeast Special Area Study are a way to shape the future of an area. Planning affects many aspects of everyday life – what kind of housing is available, how we get around, the preservation of natural areas, and much more. Your involvement in the process helps build effective recommendations for the study area. 

Next Steps

The SESSA Project Team will present a report to City Council in late summer 2021 with the community’s response and feedback to our draft recommendations. The City Council will then have the opportunity to refer the study recommendations to the Planning Commission for further review.