New Developments in North Carolina

With more than 200 sunny days per year, 600 golf courses, 1,500 lakes and landmarks and destinations galore, North Carolina has become one of the premier places to live, work and play.

The incredible ecological beauty and diversity of North Carolina make this southern gem a desirable destination for all, fueling demand for quality residences, amenities and communities.

In North Carolina alone, six master-planned communities are shaping the future of the state for residents, transferees and retiring babyboomers alike. 

North Carolina is already home to several Forest City developments, including: Summers Walk, a neo-traditional community located in charming Davidson, N.C.; Old Stone Crossing at Caldwell Creek, a classic residential neighborhood in the University of North Carolina at Charlotte area; and The Greens at Birkdale, a luxurious development near Lake Norman.

For the Forest City Land Group, excitement is brewing faster than the region’s signature sweet tea as three new, master-planned communities are being developed in North Carolina.

The Challenge

Legacy Lakes, a 405-acre, 650-unit community in Aberdeen, N.C., will be wrapped around the Legacy Golf Links. Designed by Jack Nicklaus II, the course stands as one of the storied golf courses located in the Pinehills area of North Carolina.

But weaving a residential community into this pre-existing, natural tapestry isn’t easy. “Not only did Forest City have to preserve the natural topography that gives the Tar Heel State its beauty, but we also had to ensure that new residents would be fully connected by walkable streets and paths, creating a true community,” said Peter Cozens, vice president – Forest City Land Group.

Forest City Land Group is creating another new community on the shore of the Albemarle Sound, often referred to as North Carolina’s “Inner Banks.” Hundreds of years ago, it was a favorite hiding place for Blackbeard, the pirate. Soon, it will be home to Bal Gra Harbor, a 1,300-acre, 1,700-unit master-planned community – and one of Forest City’s most unique developments to date.

A master-planned community will be anchored by a yacht harbor and marina town center that will evoke the same classic images of Charleston, S.C., and Savanna, Ga. However, by becoming a part of this ecologically-rich, seaside area, Forest City has one duty above all – protect the environment.

“To complicate matters, the area lacked the infrastructure to support a thriving, new community. Forest City had to make these necessary additions, without disturbing the natural, ecological balance,” Cozens said.

In Mooresville, N.C., the design plans are being finalized, and construction is set to begin in Fall 2006 for Cotton Creek, a master-planned community of between 750 and 900 homes. In addition to the design of beautiful large homesites, this community hopes to add a distinctive “active adult” enclave – a community within the community.

As America’s baby boomers push into their golden years, thousands are flocking to North Carolina in search of a different experience.
“Active adults are saying ‘good bye’ to everyday hassles – like rush hour traffic and endless home repairs – and ‘hello’ to conveniences, amenities and activities,” Cozens said. “Aging baby boomers want a connected community that gives them access to neighbors, friends and fun.”

Indeed, the Tar Heel State is proving to be the perfect place to retire to or own a second house or condo.