Big news out of Winston-Salem, NC (in the home state of our Packed House Sports owner)
Carter and Front Street Capital, in collaboration with the City of Winston-Salem and Wake Forest University, were thrilled yesterday to unveil The Grounds—a groundbreaking 100-acre mixed-use development poised to transform the landscape surrounding some of northwest North Carolina’s most prominent event venues. This ambitious project will seamlessly integrate retail, dining, residential, and office spaces into a vibrant community hub, elevating Winston-Salem’s status as a premier destination for sports and entertainment.
Strategically located near key landmarks such as the Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium, David F. Couch Ballpark, Wake Forest Tennis Center, and Winston-Salem Fairgrounds & Arena, The Grounds will offer an array of new amenities designed to enhance the experience for over 750,000 annual visitors. This includes existing major events such as Wake Forest and ACC sports, the Carolina Classic Fair, Winston-Salem Thunderbirds games, the ATP Winston-Salem Open, and various concerts and shows held throughout the year.
The Grounds represents the evolution of a historically rich area known for its vibrant music scene, memorable athletic events, and world-class concerts. It will provide a year-round gathering place for the Winston-Salem community, featuring dining options, social spaces, activities, walking trails, and innovative residential living.
Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines expressed enthusiasm, stating, “Today marks a pivotal moment for Winston-Salem as we turn a visionary concept into reality. The Grounds is more than just a set of plans; it’s a blueprint for a new era of energy and opportunity for our city. This development builds upon the success of projects like Whitaker Park and the Senior Services Center, marking another significant step in revitalizing this crucial part of our city. I look forward to seeing The Grounds become a cornerstone of our future.”
Wake Forest University President Dr. Susan R. Wente emphasized the collaborative aspect of the project: “By creating a dynamic space that combines residential, commercial, and athletic elements with welcoming public areas, we are redefining the University’s role as a community partner. This development will enrich the student experience, attract new talent, and contribute to the city’s overall vitality. The Grounds will serve as a common ground for everyone.”
The first phase of The Grounds, set to break ground in December 2024, will include:
- A Pedestrian-Friendly Retail Village: Featuring over 40,000 square feet of space with chef-driven restaurants, boutique shops with outdoor seating, and ample community gathering areas. Above the retail spaces, loft-style residential units will add vitality and activity to the central plaza.
- A 240-Unit Residential Community: Offering upscale amenities, green space views, and direct access to the retail village.
- A 100,000-Square-Foot Office Building: Planned for lease by Wake Forest University.
- Infrastructure Enhancements: Funded by a $35 million grant from the State of North Carolina, including road upgrades, Silas Creek restoration, and a paved, landscaped walking trail providing pedestrian connectivity throughout The Grounds.
Wake Forest Vice President & Director of Athletics John Currie highlighted the impact, stating, “For over 80 years, this area has been a hub for memorable events, from Deacon victories to world-class concerts. The Grounds signifies a new era of year-round enjoyment, reinforcing our commitment to providing the best fan experience in North Carolina.”
Carter and Front Street Capital, renowned for their successful mixed-use projects such as Bailey South in Winston-Salem and The Banks in Cincinnati, are leading this transformative initiative. The nationally acclaimed architecture firm Nelson, known for The Battery project in Atlanta, will design The Grounds.
Adam Parker, Vice President at Carter, remarked, “We are excited to be part of Winston-Salem’s next chapter. The strong support from the city, Forsyth County, the State of North Carolina, and Wake Forest University has laid a solid foundation for The Grounds. After nearly two years of planning, we are eager to see this vision come to life.”
Coleman Team, President & Managing Partner of Front Street Capital, added, “The Grounds has the potential to become Winston-Salem and Northwest North Carolina’s vibrant living room, active on both event and non-event days. With over 750,000 annual visitors and the success of projects like Bailey South, it’s clear Winston-Salem is ready for a development of this scale.”
Bravo to Atlanta, GA based Carter, Front Street Capital, and Nelson in collaboration with the City of Winston-Salem and Wake Forest University’s Media Contact Cheryl Walker on this exciting news!