Kannapolis, N.C., October 29, 2008—The City of Kannapolis recently launched a community development effort that will work to improve less stable neighborhoods within the City. The first area that the City will focus on includes the neighborhoods near the old Carver School – Nightown, Happy Hollow, Rutledgetown, and Newtown.

Working with consultants from NCSU and NC A&T, the City is developing a strategic plan to address the area’s unique needs, from working with current residents to learn their vision for the neighborhoods’ future to engaging property owners and non-profit organizations to improve the appearance and infrastructure in the area. City representatives are working with residents, property owners, schools, churches, and others to encourage their participation.

“We will complete the planning process by late 2009, and hope to replicate this process in other fragile neighborhoods,” said Irene Sacks, director of business and community affairs for Kannapolis. “The strategic plan will build on the assets in the neighborhoods and address their needs.”

Already, changes are underway. Prosperity Unlimited has worked with the City to build several new homes in the area, and City Council recently allocated federal funds to extend Wood Avenue from Foster Street to James Street. This road extension will provide better access to the neighborhood and will also enable the development of the Hollow Ridge subdivision at the intersection of Wood Avenue and Walter Street. Seventeen single-family homes are planned to be built by Prosperity Unlimited, with construction likely beginning in 2009.