Design and Construction Report staff writer
Morrisville officials and community members celebrated a ceremonial groundbreaking Wednesday for the town’s long-planned Town Center, a project designed to bring a downtown and destination hub to the growing community.
The first phase includes a four-story, 215-unit apartment complex with retail and commercial space on the ground floor, along with a new community park featuring small retail “cottages” and space for live music.
“This is truly a milestone, not just for the Town Center project, but for the Morrisville community,” said Town Manager Brandon Zuidema. “The Town Center adds a whole new dimension to our community and our ability to draw visitors from across the region.”
The project has been envisioned by the town council since 2007. Since 2020, Morrisville has worked through a public-private partnership with Singh Development LLC, in collaboration with the Development Finance Initiative at the UNC School of Government, to formalize a development agreement outlining the responsibilities of both partners, the scope of private and public investment, and funding for Phase 1A.
The North Carolina Local Government Commission approved the development agreement on Sept. 10, allowing the town to use bond funds to support public infrastructure, including the Town Green with a performance stage, water feature, children’s play area, event space via Foxglove Drive extension, and improvements to the Western Wake Farmers’ Market and Education Garden.
Singh Development will construct retail cottages in the Town Green and additional retail and commercial space along Carolina Street.
Over the past four years, Morrisville and Singh have also collaborated on a memorandum of understanding, a pre-development agreement, and the rezoning of Phase 1A properties to ensure the project meets the intended Main Street design. Multiple community meetings were held to gather feedback on design and amenities.
Phase 1A construction is underway, with infrastructure improvements supporting the mixed-use development. The 25-acre Town Center will ultimately combine residential, retail, office, and civic spaces in a walkable, pedestrian-friendly downtown.
Town Council previously approved a capital project ordinance amendment to fund $19 million in public investment for Phase 1A. Singh Development remains the primary private partner, overseeing construction of apartments, retail, and commercial spaces.
