Development News for Smithfield, North Carolina

DSDC Outlines Downtown Smithfield's Five-Year Transformation Strategy

Heidi Gilman provided an update on the Downtown Smithfield Development Corporation (DSDC) and its five-year transformation strategy. The DSDC was formed in 1984 to revitalize downtown after a decline in the 1970s and 80s. In July 2024, the program underwent leadership transition and faced challenges including a lack of clear work plans, divided business communities, underutilized properties, and loss of Main Street accreditation. Rebuilding efforts have focused on strengthening the board, implementing Main Street's four-point approach (Organization, Promotion, Design, Economic Vitality), and developing a transformation strategy and work plan. The update highlighted the economic importance of downtowns, citing a study showing mixed-use downtowns exceeding $5 million per acre in tax revenue compared to large-scale developments. SWOT analysis identified strengths (proximity to Wake County, airport, I-95, population growth, active downtown, charm, river) and weaknesses (appearance, landowner unwillingness, infrastructure challenges, lack of cohesive vision, lack of retail/restaurant spaces). Opportunities include wayfinding, economic development, communication, location leverage, and infill development. Threats include parking issues and deteriorating buildings. The strategy focuses on developing anchors (performing arts center, baseball stadium, restaurants/bars) and strengthening the business mix by encouraging clusters of food, retail, and entertainment, and attracting businesses that extend activity beyond 5 PM. The DSDC has developed a new logo and website, and is increasing marketing reach through social media and destination marketing. The first-year plan prioritizes food and beverage, with recent transitions including Masimo's Pizza, Curry Corner, and Victory Steakhouse. Signature events like Celebrate Smithfield, Ham and Yam Festival, Independence Day, October Fest, and Christmas events are being promoted. The design committee is working on streetscaping, parking, walkability, and activating spaces like the library park and amphitheater. The 'Making it Easier to Do Business' initiative involves modernizing zoning, streamlining permitting, and serving as a marketplace expert. Revitalization requires teamwork between the town, county, visitors bureau, businesses, and community support.

Planning Board Meetings to Be Videotaped; Council to Meet with Board

A motion was made and passed to arrange for the planning board meetings to be videotaped and for the town council to meet with the planning board. Councilman Wallace initiated the motion, noting that videotaping would ensure accurate minutes and allow for review of proceedings, similar to county practices. Concerns were raised by staff regarding logistical issues, including the need for staff presence, budget implications for overtime, and whether all advisory board meetings should be recorded. The motion was amended to include arranging a meeting between the town council and the planning board. The approved motion aims to improve transparency and communication between the two bodies.

Smithfield Council Reviews Zoning Amendment for Downtown Bars and Clubs

The Town Council discussed a zoning text amendment (ZA2504) to allow private clubs and bars in the B1 zoning district with supplemental standards. The proposal, driven by the DSDC and Planning Department, aims to attract people downtown and increase economic vitality. The supplemental regulations would limit establishments to 2500 sq ft, place them within the social district, require a 200 ft buffer from places of worship, childcare, and residences, and restrict them to two per block. Micah, representing staff, presented the amendment, noting that North Carolina law gives the ABC commission ultimate authority over alcohol sales permits. He also provided examples of how other municipalities regulate bars and clubs. The B1 district affected is a small area primarily along South Third Street. The Planning Board had previously recommended approval with the 'two per block' addition. Several council members and members of the public raised questions about definitions (private club vs. bar), hours of operation, noise, potential for adverse effects, and enforcement. The council ultimately moved to recommend approval of the amendment with the agreed-upon supplemental regulations.

Town Council Considers Zoning Amendment to Allow Bars and Private Clubs in B1 District

The Town Council considered a zoning text amendment (ZA2504) to allow private clubs and bars in the B1 zoning district with supplemental standards, specifically within the town's social district. The proposed amendment aims to attract people downtown and increase economic vitality by creating a new use within the B1 district. The supplemental regulations include limitations on size (max 2500 sq ft), proximity to places of worship, childcare facilities, and residential properties (min 200 ft), and a limit of two establishments per town block. The Planning Board unanimously recommended approval with the addition of the 'two bars per block' stipulation. Staff also recommended approval, finding the amendment consistent with the town's comprehensive growth management plan and reasonable in the public interest. The council moved to recommend approval of the zoning text amendment with the agreed-upon supplemental regulations.