Greensboro, NC – The City of Greensboro is evaluating a new apartment complex proposal at the corner of South Elm Street and West Gate City Boulevard, aiming to add over 100 new residential units in downtown. This move is part of the city’s ambitious Road to 10,000 initiative, which strives to increase the city’s housing supply with diverse and affordable options.
After years of discussions and plans to redevelop the gravel parking lot on the site, the proposal by the Alexander Company presents a fresh opportunity to transform the area with a mixed-use development that could significantly rejuvenate the neighborhood.
Long-Awaited Redevelopment of South Elm Blocks
The corner of South Elm Street and West Gate City Boulevard has been eyed for redevelopment for decades. The area dubbed the South Elm blocks comprises two blocks just south of Gate City Boulevard and has been part of the city’s redevelopment framework since the early 2000s.
Russ Clegg, the city’s long-range planning division manager, shared insights on the ongoing discussions:
“We are currently in conversations with multiple developers focusing on the west block. The Alexander Company’s proposal to build an apartment complex called Southgate Market is promising—it includes 128 one- and two-bedroom apartments, with rents ranging from $738 to $2,045 per month. Our vision is to develop a mixed-use site that brings a quality residential feel, connecting downtown with surrounding neighborhoods.”
The redevelopment aims to attract new businesses as well. Feedback from the community highlights a desire for retail options such as a grocery store, which could thrive alongside residential growth and enhance the vibrancy of downtown Greensboro.
Supporting the Road to 10,000 Housing Initiative
The Road to 10,000 is a large-scale strategic initiative designed to increase Greensboro’s housing units by 10,000, focusing on variety in price points, styles, and types of housing across the city. The proposed Southgate Market apartments align well with this goal.
- The complex would add a minimum of 128 new housing units to downtown.
- It offers a range of affordability, accommodating residents with a spectrum of income levels.
- Promotes high-quality design and mixed-use development that benefits the entire city ecosystem.
Russ Clegg emphasized the importance of this project for the downtown housing market:
“This development will be a really high-quality project that not only expands housing options downtown but also enhances the overall community feel and connectivity within Greensboro.”
Next Steps Before Construction Can Begin
Before any physical work starts on Southgate Market, several administrative and planning steps must be completed:
- Finalizing a sales development agreement between the city and the Alexander Company.
- Securing approval from Greensboro’s redevelopment commission.
- Obtaining the endorsement of the city council.
These approvals will pave the way for downtown Greensboro to welcome this anticipated development, adding momentum to the city’s urban growth and housing expansion efforts.
Get Involved: Share Your Thoughts
What do you think about the proposed Southgate Market apartment complex in downtown Greensboro? How do you feel this development will impact the community and local economy? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
