Real Estate

UNCP celebrates Pembroke’s downtown revitalization project

By Staff Report, posted 1 year ago
The Town of Pembroke breaks ground on $14 million Downtown Revitalization Project - Photo provided by UNCP

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.

Ico insights

INSIGHTS

SPONSORS' CONTENT

In The Current Issue

Building on the basics: Advanced Contractors Academy equips local firms to compete for government projects

The Advanced Contractors Academy, a free six-week program, is designed for established contractors ready to pursue larger-scale public contracts with agencies such as Fayetteville State University (FSU), Cumberland County and Cape Fear Valley Health.


Hungry for success: Local entrepreneur Kelton Battle is changing the vending machine game in North Carolina

Today, Hungry Snacks Vending operates 140 machines across North Carolina, with locations ranging from schools to public transit stations.


Too bright to dim: My Future So Bright program sees exponential growth during third year

 A total of 84 interns participated in this year’s My Future So Bright program. At the graduation ceremony held on Aug. 1, each student was able to receive their graduation certificates from Mid-Carolina Regional Council Executive Director Saman