Developers present two large housing projects for Cramerton; board seeks utility partnership

Two major residential projects were the focus of development presentations to the Cramerton Board of Commissioners on Jan. 6.

Representatives for Crescent Resources/Fielding Homes (presented by Chris Bosco and Benji Layman) outlined a 37.97-acre townhome project on South New Hope Road that would allow four to six units per acre, producing roughly 186 units. Bosco said homes would be constructed of brick and stone (no vinyl siding) and estimated prices at about $320,000 to $375,000. He said a traffic impact analysis will be required and described plans to preserve about 40% of the site as trees and nature areas and to include pocket parks and an amenity building.

Commissioners questioned sewer service and access. Commissioner Helms asked whether sewer would be gravity-fed or require a force main; Bosco said the developer has completed a basin study and planned a temporary gravity line until Two Rivers Utilities (TRU) completes planned system improvements. Kyle Butler with Two Rivers Utilities (via Zoom) said TRU’s principal concern is the proposed gravity line feeding a different basin and that TRU is negotiating sewer work and right-of-way issues; Two Rivers’ sewer improvements were discussed as scheduled for completion in 2023. The board took no formal action on the South New Hope proposal and recommended the developer reach an agreement with Two Rivers Utilities before returning for approvals.

Paul Tryon of IL Housing Solutions presented proposed conditional-zoning amendments for the MT Land/Redhawk project (479 acres). Tryon said the amendments would reduce impacts to streams by approximately ninety percent, increase open space by about forty percent and create a village core with townhomes adjacent to retail and amenities. Commissioners pressed for care around tree removal, silt control and traffic management; Bonnie Fisher of LaBella urged natural grading near streams. The board indicated general agreement with the proposed changes but did not take final action at the Jan. 6 meeting.

These two presentations signal continuing development pressure in the town. Commissioners asked developers to resolve outstanding utility, environmental and traffic issues and to coordinate with Two Rivers Utilities and NCDOT before formal zoning or permitting actions.

Next steps: developers will pursue required analyses (traffic impact, basin/stormwater studies) and negotiate utility agreements; the board expects future return visits for formal zoning or permitting requests.