Cary · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Cary public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Green Level Church Road Residential Rezoning
The council approved rezoning 11.22 acres for a residential development of up to 39 detached homes with open space and EV charging features.
Historic Preservation Master Plan Update
Ongoing maintenance and specialized grant-funded paint analysis are advancing the interpretation and upkeep of the historic Nancy Jones House.
Residential Land Dedications & Recreation Fund Contributions
Developers can pay a fee instead of dedicating parkland. The town has about $7.3 million banked for FY27, with most of it ($4.8M) earmarked for West Cary projects like greenways, turf fields, and dam rehabilitation.
Alston Commons Mixed-Use Rezoning
22.74 acres at NC 55 and Petty Farm Road will become a mixed-use development with up to 625 apartments, office, retail, and a car wash. The developer committed to building the mixed-use core before the car wash can open, plus affordable units, EV charging, and silva cells for street trees.
Hatcher Property Rezoning (23-REZ-14)
An applicant is proposing 52 detached homes on 23 acres off Saunders Grove Lane, featuring extensive greenways and historic preservation elements.
Jacobs Creek Annexation and Rezoning (25-A-09 & 25-REZ-16)
An applicant petitioned to annex 8.99 acres and rezone from Wake County R-40W to Cary R-12-CU to build up to 16 detached homes. Council members discussed the long-term fiscal sustainability and infrastructure costs associated with town annexations.
Cary Bike Plan and PRCR System Plan Updates
Staff and committee members planned community outreach activities to celebrate Cary reaching 100 miles of greenways. Ideas like a 'pin your favorite greenway' board and children's coloring stations were recommended for the upcoming Spring Daze festival.
Act 39 Carpenter Special Planning Area Comprehensive Plan Amendment
Property owners requested a comprehensive plan amendment to allow a five-story mixed-use building and multifamily housing at Morrisville Carpenter Road and Lewis Stevens Drive. Residents of surrounding neighborhoods expressed strong opposition, arguing it disrupts the rural and historic character of Carpenter.
Act 40 Land Development Ordinance Amendments
The advisory board reviewed park land dedication requirements for two housing developments, deciding to accept cash payments instead of physical land because nearby parks and planned greenways already serve the areas.
Weston PDD Amendment Rezoning
Highwoods is replacing an aging, vacant office building at 7001 Weston Parkway with up to 275 multifamily units and commercial space. The project includes enhanced evergreen screening, a 75-foot building setback, and a 12-foot multi-use side path.
Trenton Road Residential Rezoning Traffic and Environmental Impacts
Neighbors and environmental advocates strongly opposed a proposed 175-unit residential rezoning on Trenton Road, citing severe traffic congestion, safety hazards, and potential impacts on Umstead State Park and local dam safety.