The High Point City Council approved a plan on Monday to revitalize the southwest side of the city.
The Southwest Mill District Area Plan aims to transform 171 acres into a mix of commercial and residential spaces. It outlines a new zoning district to guide development in the area, but some worried it could lead to gentrification.
Tony Collins, the president of the Southside Neighborhood Association, said residents could be at risk of being displaced as new investment occurs.
"Specific recommendations should be included to support opportunities for current residents to continue to live, work and prosper in the Southside neighborhood," Collins said.
Mayor Cyril Jefferson said the council is working to strike a balance of protecting neighborhoods while also supporting businesses.
"Where we are right now is a step in the process to continue to realize what I think many of us want to see on the south side and on southwest High Point in that corridor, which is that it's healthy, which is that it's safe, which is that it's a place that everyone wants to be," he said.
The next step is for the council to initiate changes to the area's zoning map. Public hearings will be held before a final decision is made.