Today, Fayetteville State University held a groundbreaking ceremony for a new Chick-fil-A that will be built in what was formerly known as Bronco Square but as of today will be known as Bronco MidTown. Additionally, FSU Chancellor Darrell T. Allison, J.D.  announced that there will be a new Starbucks built on campus. The restaurants anticipate opening between late 2023 and early 2024. 

“This is an extraordinary moment for our university, our city, county and region,” said Chancellor Allison in a press release. “These new enterprises are much more than popular restaurants — they are significant investments in our local economy that will create new employment and revenue opportunities, offer welcoming and vibrant gathering places for families, and further enrich our student experience. These are tangible symbols of FSU’s economic leadership, partnership and commitment to this community. After more than a year of planning and collaborating with incredible partners, we are seeing the fruits of our collective labors.”

FSU’s decision to rename Bronco Square to Bronco MidTown connects the expanding campus to downtown Fayetteville and further solidifies the University’s partnership with the city. Also, Filter Plant Road, adjacent to Bronco MidTown, is now Bronco Village Drive. 

“Thank you, Chancellor, thank you for your vision. You know, it's amazing to see the investment and the growth of Fayetteville State University, you know, within this block, and this is the Bronco block…The day has finally arrived, that this area, this community is put first, not only with our passion, and our words but with our dollars, our treasure, our commitment. So Chancellor, thank you for being an economic partner, Fayetteville State is truly established in cementing its position as an economic engine and partner in the Murchison Road Corridor and beyond…” remarked Mayor Mitch Colvin during the groundbreaking ceremony. 

With one more announcement left, Tammy Thurman from the Greater Fayetteville Chamber stepped up to the podium to reveal that Bronco MidTown will now be “the permanent home of the Greater Fayetteville Chamber,” according to Thurmon. 

The ninth Chancellor of FSU Willis B. McLeod, who was responsible for the decision to acquire the property initially, attended the event as well and had the opportunity to share his thoughts. “I am just so proud to see the unity among all of the factions of this city come together, and it's due in large part to the leadership of this young man, to whom we passed the torch less than a month ago…I appreciate the opportunity to look at your faces and say thank you. Fayetteville State has almost arrived, not quite there yet, but almost arrived because there's a future that even we don't quite yet see. Because I didn't see all of this at the time. At the time we embarked upon this venture I am so proud I am just humbled by what I’ve seen…” shared McLeod in a heartfelt speech.