Local, state and federal officials held a groundbreaking ceremony on Jan. 10 to kick off a $14 million downtown revitalization streetscape project in Pembroke, enhancing connectivity between UNC Pembroke and the Lumbee Tribe’s headquarters.

The project includes two-way left turn lanes on N.C. 711, bike and pedestrian pathways, replacing deteriorated infrastructures, relocation of overhead power lines and installation of new lighting, crosswalks, ramps and sidewalks. The project will take 20 months to complete and includes repairing deteriorating subsurface stormwater and sewer infrastructure in conjunction with surface treatments.

The improvements will reinvigorate business, attract new ones, improve motorist and pedestrian safety and improve residents' overall quality of life, explained Mayor Greg Cummings in a press release. 

The project was funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant.

“Today, we celebrate another significant milestone in the transformation of our town,” said Chancellor Robin Gary Cummings in a press release. “This growth could not come at a more perfect time as UNC Pembroke continues to grow in enrollment and academic offerings. Together, we are building more than roads and pathways––we are constructing a bridge to a brighter, more connected future for Pembroke.”

Sen. Danny Britt said the new streetscape plan will make the town more attractive to prospective students at UNCP and their families.

“This project focuses more on UNC Pembroke, more so than anything, and the need to grow,” Britt said in a press release.

Town Councilman Channing Jones said the town’s ability to secure millions in funding was a result of good partnerships with the Lumbee Tribe and Chairman John Lowery and strong friendships at the local, state and federal levels, many of whom were in attendance, including representatives for U.S. Sen. Ted Budd, U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis and U.S. Rep. David Rouzer, along with several tribal leaders.

“It took a lot of leadership and a lot of partnerships to get where we are today, and it’s going to be amazing to see this project when it is completed,” said N.C. Rep. Jarrod Lowery in a press release.