Harnett County Planning Board advances rezoning request for commercial development on Co. Rosser Road

Harnett County's Board of Commissioners made significant strides in planning for the future during their regular meeting on April 21, 2025. The board discussed a proposed rezoning request for a 1.19-acre property at 520 Co. Rosser Road, transitioning from residential to commercial zoning. The property, previously used for residential purposes, is now vacant following the demolition of its structures. The planning staff recommended approval of the rezoning, citing compatibility with the county's land use plan and surrounding commercial developments. However, the board opted to postpone the vote until the next meeting to ensure all commissioners could participate in the decision.

In addition to the rezoning discussion, the board held a public hearing on the Harnett Horizons 2040 Comprehensive Development Plan. This extensive plan, developed over the past year, aims to guide the county's growth and development over the next decade. It incorporates feedback from nearly 1,800 community members, making it one of the most responsive planning efforts in the county's history. Key elements of the plan include strategies for economic development, transportation improvements, and the preservation of agricultural land.

The plan emphasizes the need for affordable housing, addressing the rising demand in the county, and proposes the creation of village districts to foster mixed-use developments that integrate residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. The board highlighted the importance of retaining farmland and ensuring that new developments do not negatively impact agricultural operations.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners expressed optimism about the plan's potential to enhance Harnett County's economic landscape and improve the quality of life for its residents. The board is expected to vote on the comprehensive plan in the coming weeks, marking a pivotal moment in the county's development trajectory.