Winston-Salem City Council unanimously approved a rezoning request this week that pushes forward a significant redevelopment project in the East Ward.
A seven-acre site that spans from Third to Fifth Streets in the downtown area will be transformed with new retail and office space. A key part of the project is more than 300 apartments and townhomes that would be built.
East Winston, which is located east of U.S. 52, is a historically Black community. Local groups want to keep that heritage in the neighborhood.
East Ward Councilmember Annette Scippio says the goal is to provide affordable housing and infuse the area with an economic boost for future growth.
“As this moves along and becomes a phenomenal development for the East Ward and right across the bridge from Innovation Quarter, there's so much opportunity that will come with this particular development," says Scippio.
Charlotte-based Liberty Atlantic Development Partners will oversee the project. According to the company's website, the mixed-use housing community will be called Metropolitan Village, and will target graduate students, essential workers, transitioning veterans, and the local workforce.
The revitalization efforts are part of a longtime vision led by several community members and local churches.
City leaders say the project is the first major step in bringing what's known as the East End Master Plan to life.
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