Cary board signals consensus to negotiate with developer A for Maplewood site

The Village of Cary Board on Jan. 21, 2025 moved to begin negotiating with one developer to redevelop the former Maplewood school property after hearing three proposals and more than an hour of public comment.

The board indicated a collective preference for the development team labeled “developer A” in staff materials and directed staff to start negotiations. The board and staff emphasized that no final site plan, zoning decision or purchase price for a developer has been approved.

Why it matters: Maplewood is a long‑discussed site adjacent to established single‑family neighborhoods. Residents who testified at the meeting said they fear increased traffic, higher density, loss of neighborhood character and inadequate notification; board members and staff said the process will include public hearings, open houses and required zoning reviews.

Director Simmons, the village staff member leading the project presentation, reminded the board and public that the village’s intergovernmental agreement with Community Unit School District 26 transfers the school property to the village and that the district provided funds to help relocate its transportation center. Simmons…