Selma plans commercial expansion with restaurants and housing developments by 2026

In the heart of Selma, North Carolina, the Planning Board meeting on March 24, 2025, buzzed with excitement and anticipation for the future of the town. As community leaders gathered under the bright lights of city hall, discussions centered on a wave of new developments poised to reshape the landscape of this small town.

The board revealed plans for a bustling commercial hub set to open in the first quarter of 2026, featuring a variety of restaurants and retail partners eager to establish their presence in Selma. Among the highlights are popular chains like Wawa, Sheetz, Olive Garden, and Chick-fil-A, which is set to relocate its dining room to Selma, promising to enhance the local dining scene.

However, with growth comes challenges. Board members expressed concerns about increasing traffic, particularly for residents living north of Selma and in nearby Flowers, where congestion has become a daily frustration. The conversation highlighted the delicate balance between fostering urban amenities and preserving the quality of life for Selma's 7,000 residents. “We are in a holding pattern to see how it all shakes out,” one member noted, emphasizing the need to address traffic issues before moving forward.

In addition to commercial growth, plans for residential development are also underway. Townhomes are set to be built behind Academy Sports, with single-family homes planned further southeast. This expansion reflects a broader vision for Selma, aiming to attract new residents while maintaining the charm that current residents cherish.

As the meeting progressed, questions arose about the future of downtown Selma. Board members discussed long-term plans to redefine city limits along Main Street, with hopes of drawing more visitors and keeping them engaged within the community. The challenge remains: how to create a vibrant downtown that competes with nearby areas like Eastview.

As the meeting concluded, the air was thick with both optimism and caution. Selma stands at a crossroads, ready to embrace growth while navigating the complexities that come with it. The decisions made in these meetings will undoubtedly shape the town's identity for years to come, leaving residents eager to see how their beloved community evolves.