Cary, NC

History

Cary, North Carolina, located in the heart of the Research Triangle Park area, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Originally a farming community, Cary played a significant role during the Civil War. It was officially incorporated in 1871. The town's growth was initially slow, but the establishment of Research Triangle Park in the 1950s spurred significant development and population growth.

Over the years, Cary has evolved from a small farming community to a thriving suburb of the Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area. Its strategic location has attracted new residents and businesses, leading to substantial growth and development.

Cary Shopping Centers

• Cary Towne Center:  A local hub for groceries, dining, and everyday needs.
• Waverly Place:  Features a mix of retail shops, restaurants, and services.
• Parkside Town Commons:  Provides a variety of shopping options for residents.
• Crossroads Plaza:  Includes retail stores and eateries catering to the community.
• Stone Creek Village:  A newer development with growing retail options.
• Fenton:  The newest shopping center, offering upscale retail, dining, and entertainment.
• The Arboretum:  A mix of shops, offices, and restaurants.
• Harrison Pointe:  Features various retail stores and services.
• Preston Corners:  Offers convenient shopping and dining options.
• Cary Village Square:  A community-focused shopping center with diverse retail options.

• 2021: Named one of the "Best Suburbs to Buy a House in North Carolina" by Niche.
• 2022: Awarded "Top Growth City" in North Carolina by U-Haul.
• 2023: Recognized for "Excellence in Community Development" by the North Carolina League of Municipalities.

Overview

Cary, North Carolina, is a prominent town located in the heart of the Research Triangle Park area in Wake County. Known for its rapid growth, strategic location, and high quality of life, Cary successfully blends suburban charm with modern development. As part of the expanding Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area, Cary offers promising opportunities for both residents and businesses.

Current Landscape

Community and Lifestyle

Cary today is a vibrant and diverse community, offering amenities that cater to families, young professionals, and retirees. The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and numerous recreational opportunities. Key highlights include:

• Bond Park: A major attraction with trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, representing Cary’s commitment to sustainable living.
• Downtown Cary: Featuring local shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, it is the heart of the community for events, shopping, and dining.
• Koka Booth Amphitheatre: An outdoor venue that hosts concerts, festivals, and cultural events in a scenic setting.
• Cary Greenway System: Extensive trails connecting parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas, promoting outdoor activities and healthy living.
• Parks and Recreation: Cary offers numerous parks and recreational areas, emphasizing outdoor activities and healthy living.

Education

Cary is served by the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS), renowned for its high educational standards. The town has several well-regarded elementary, middle, and high schools. Additionally, the proximity to Raleigh provides easy access to top universities such as North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Economic Growth and Development

Cary is experiencing significant economic growth, driven by both residential and commercial development. Its strategic location near major highways and inclusion in the Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area make it an attractive destination for businesses and developers. Key factors contributing to this growth include:

• Business-Friendly Environment: Cary offers incentives for businesses to set up and expand. The town's leadership focuses on creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and established companies alike.
• Residential Development: New housing developments accommodate the influx of new residents, with communities like Preston being prime examples of thoughtfully planned growth.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Investments in infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and public services, ensure that Cary can support its growing population.

Future Prospects

Sustainable Growth

Cary’s future is centered around sustainable and balanced growth. The town is committed to maintaining its suburban charm while embracing modern development. Plans for the future include:

• Green Spaces: Emphasizing parks, trails, and recreational facilities to enhance residents' quality of life.
• Smart Development: Promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable developments, including energy-efficient buildings and green technologies.
• Community Engagement: Involving the community in planning and decision-making processes to ensure growth benefits all residents.

Transportation and Connectivity

Cary’s strategic location near major highways such as Interstate 40 (I-40) and U.S. Route 1 makes it highly accessible. Future plans include:

• Improved Public Transportation: Enhancing bus services and exploring additional public transit options to better connect Cary with the greater Raleigh-Durham area.
• Road Improvements: Ongoing projects to upgrade and expand road infrastructure to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity within the town and to surrounding areas.

Economic Opportunities

Cary is positioning itself as a hub for innovation and economic activity. Future economic initiatives include:

• Attracting New Businesses: Efforts to attract new businesses in sectors such as technology, healthcare, and retail to diversify the local economy.
• Supporting Local Entrepreneurs: Providing resources and support for local startups and small businesses to thrive.
• Enhancing Workforce Development: Collaborating with educational institutions to ensure that the local workforce is skilled and ready to meet the needs of new and existing businesses.

Population Growth Since 1990

Cary has experienced substantial population growth since 1990. According to census data:

This growth is attributed to Cary’s appeal as a suburban community with easy access to Raleigh, Durham, and other parts of the Research Triangle.

Transportation/Interstate Access

Cary benefits from its strategic location near major highways and interstates, providing residents with convenient access to surrounding areas:

• Interstate 40 (I-40): Directly connects Cary to Raleigh and other key destinations.
• U.S. Route 1: Provides regional connectivity and access to nearby towns.
• Interstate 540 (I-540): Offers easy north-south travel.

Public transportation options are expanding, with plans to enhance bus services linking Cary to the greater Raleigh-Durham area, further integrating the town into the region’s transportation network.

Sustainable Growth Initiatives

Cary has implemented various sustainability initiatives to ensure long-term growth and environmental stewardship:

• Climate Action Plan: Cary is developing a comprehensive climate action strategy to address and mitigate climate change impacts.
• Energy Initiatives: The town utilizes solar energy extensively and promotes energy efficiency through various programs.
• Green Infrastructure: Investments in greenways, parks, and urban forestry to enhance environmental quality and community well-being.
• Water Conservation: Programs to promote water conservation and sustainable water management practices.

Cary, NC, continues to grow and thrive as a vibrant community, blending historical charm with modern amenities and suburban appeal.

Places of Interest

• Page-Walker Arts & History Center: Offers insights into the town’s history with exhibits and artifacts.
• Fred G. Bond Metro Park: A central hub for community events and gatherings.
• Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve: Features trails and educational programs.
• Cary Arts Center: A popular venue for cultural and artistic events.
• Koka Booth Amphitheatre: Hosts concerts and festivals in a scenic setting.