Downtown Rocky Mount is experiencing remarkable growth, driven by strategic incentives, public-private partnerships, and a surge in tourism. With over $30 million in active projects, the city is attracting developers eager to shape its future. From new restaurants to revitalized spaces, Rocky Mount is building a vibrant, business-ready downtown.
Downtown Rocky Mount is at a pivotal moment, experiencing unprecedented momentum and growth. Thanks to strategic public-private partnerships and some of the most competitive incentive programs in North Carolina, the city is actively cultivating a thriving environment for developers and business owners.
With over $30 million in active projects and increasing demand for housing, retail, and dining, Rocky Mount is setting the standard for smart, sustainable development. From new restaurants to reimagined spaces, the city’s investments are driving transformation at an accelerated pace.
“The rapid success of the Rocky Mount Event Center as the region’s leader in sports tourism has been a game-changer for downtown Rocky Mount,” said Tanika Bryant, downtown development manager. “The influx of visitors and increased foot traffic quickly outpaced our initial projections, prompting us to take a more strategic and proactive approach to development.”
To meet the growing demand, the city has introduced incentive programs aimed at business attraction and expansion. One key initiative offers up to $50,000 to diverse restaurants, responding to a strong demand for more culturally varied food options. This has already led to the arrival of Lazeez, the first Indian restaurant in Nash and Edgecombe County, adding to a vibrant mix of Haitian, Hispanic, and other international cuisines downtown.
“We are putting our money where our mouth is,” Bryant emphasized. “We’re not just saying what we want and need downtown, but we are providing the support and resources to make it happen.”
The city is also tackling the surging demand for housing head-on, offering grants to incentivize developers to build more residential units. Apartments—both luxury and affordable—are leasing faster than ever, with new developments often fully occupied before their official openings.
“But our growth doesn’t stop with housing; an increasing residential and visitor population creates new demands for retail, dining, and entertainment,” Bryant added. ” We’re constantly engaging with the community and visitors, ensuring our strategies are innovative, responsive, and keep Rocky Mount ahead of the curve.”
As Rocky Mount surges forward, preserving the city’s historic charm remains a core focus. The city is committed to revitalizing key historic sites, such as the Historic Douglas Block, once the heart of the city’s historic Black business district.
“We view historic preservation not as a limitation, but as a powerful design asset,” said Nasir Dukes, managing partner of Dukes Properties and Construction. “It’s about honoring the soul of Rocky Mount’s past while creating spaces that meet today’s needs. Our work strives to tell a story that bridges heritage and progress.”
Time is of the essence. With Rocky Mount experiencing its most significant downtown activity in over 25 years, development opportunities won’t last forever.
“This is one of the most investor-friendly cities in the region,” Bryant noted. “With over 850 residents, 800 students, 4,000 employees, and 1.1 million visits in 2024 alone, downtown Rocky Mount is a city on the rise. We’re building meaningful partnerships with developers, entrepreneurs, and visionaries who share our commitment to progress—and the best is yet to come!”
That spirit of collaboration and forward-thinking investment is exactly what draws developers to the city. For Dukes, it’s not just about growth but also the energy and passion behind it.
“What excites me most is the community spirit driving this momentum,” Dukes said. “There’s a hunger for progress, paired with a deep respect for the city’s roots—that’s rare. The biggest growth opportunities lie in creating dynamic live-work-play environments that attract young professionals and support small businesses. Rocky Mount is on the rise, and it’s a privilege to help shape its future.”
Developers looking for their next investment should explore the opportunities in downtown Rocky Mount now. With business-friendly incentives and a clear vision for growth, the city is ready to partner with you.
By Shappelle Marshall