Rolesville, NC

History

Rolesville, North Carolina, is one of the oldest towns in Wake County, with a history that dates back to the early 19th century. The town was founded by local farmer William H. Roles, who established a plantation in the area. Rolesville was officially incorporated in 1837. The town grew slowly over the years, maintaining its agricultural roots and rural charm.

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

Shopping Centers

While Rolesville is primarily a residential area, it is close to several shopping centers in neighboring communities, providing residents with convenient access to various retail options. Some nearby shopping centers include:

• Rolesville Town Center: A local hub for groceries, dining, and everyday needs.
• Wake Forest Crossing: Features a mix of retail shops, restaurants, and services.
• Forestville Commons: Provides a variety of shopping options for residents.
• Gateway Commons: Includes retail stores and eateries catering to the community.
• Triangle Town Center: A major shopping destination with numerous retail stores and dining options.

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

Overview

Rolesville, North Carolina, is a small, growing town located in the northeastern part of Wake County. The town has experienced significant growth in recent years, transitioning from a rural farming community to a suburban enclave within the expanding Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area. Rolesville is located near the town of Wake Forest, so residents can enjoy the best of both communities.

Current Landscape

Community and Lifestyle

Rolesville is a welcoming community. The town is known for its friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and numerous recreational opportunities. Key highlights include:

• Main Street Park: A central hub for community events, featuring walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
• Rolesville Recreation Center: Offers a variety of fitness and recreational programs for residents of all ages.
• Family-Friendly Environment: The town emphasizes family-oriented activities and community engagement.

Education

Rolesville is served by the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS), which is renowned for its high educational standards. The town is home to several well-regarded elementary, middle, and high schools. Being part of the Triangle area, it offers a reasonable drive to a number of colleges and universities, including the nationally recognized schools of North Carolina State University, Duke University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Economic Growth and Development

Rolesville is experiencing significant economic growth, driven by both residential and commercial development. The town's strategic location near major highways and its 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: Rolesville 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 Carlton Pointe and Heritage East being prime examples of thoughtfully planned growth.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Investments in infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and public services, ensure that Rolesville can support its growing population.

Future Prospects

Transportation and Connectivity

Rolesville’s strategic location near major highways such as U.S. Route 401 and N.C. Highway 96 makes it highly accessible. Future plans include:

• Improved Public Transportation: Exploring options for enhancing public transit to better connect Rolesville with nearby towns and the greater Raleigh-Durham area.
• Road Improvements: Ongoing projects to upgrade and expand road infrastructure to improve connectivity within the town and to surrounding areas.

Economic Opportunities

Rolesville is positioning itself as a community that balances rural charm with accessibility to urban opportunities. Future economic initiatives include:

• Attracting New Businesses: Efforts to attract businesses in sectors such as retail, healthcare, and technology 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

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

• 1990: Approximately 600 residents
• 2000: Approximately 900 residents
• 2010: Approximately 3,800 residents
• 2020: Approximately 7,000 residents
• 2023: Estimated at over 8,000 residents

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

Transportation/Interstate Access

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

• U.S. Route 401: Directly connects Rolesville to Raleigh and other key destinations.
• N.C. Highway 96: Offers regional connectivity and access to nearby towns.
• Interstate 540 (I-540): Provides regional connectivity and access to nearby suburbs and Research Triangle Park.

Places of Interest

• Main Street Park: Offers walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas, serving as a central hub for community events.
• Rolesville Recreation Center: Provides fitness and recreational programs for residents of all ages.
• Mill Bridge Nature Park: Features nature trails and scenic views, offering recreational opportunities for residents.
• Rolesville Farmers Market: A popular venue for local produce and handmade goods, reflecting the community’s agricultural heritage.