During Elizabethtown’s monthly meeting for July, the Town Council approved critical agreements with North Carolina Sustainable Futures, Inc. for the Live, Work, Play project in Elizabethtown Industrial Park. This includes the Infrastructure Reimbursement Agreement and the Ground Lease and Option to Lease Agreement for residential housing, paving the way for the construction of 284 workforce housing units.
This project aims to address housing needs for various local entities such as our local businesses, Cape Fear Valley Bladen County Hospital, Bladen County Community College, Bladen County Schools and governmental agencies, reducing the commute for their employees. Additionally, it offers housing options for new businesses looking to relocate or expand in the area.
The next steps involve finalizing an interlocal governmental agreement between the County and Town, along with securing approval for a resolution to accept and utilize the $15 million earmarked for infrastructure needs at the Live, Work, Play project. The County Commissioners are set to vote on these documents during their July 15 meeting.
Overall, this has almost been a three-year-in-the-making project that aims to enhance local housing options and support economic growth by accommodating both existing and prospective businesses in the region.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
