County Grants Open, I-295 Nears Finish, and Mixed-Use Growth Expands in Fayetteville

Fayetteville and Cumberland County leaders closed out the week with several developments that could shape the city’s growth over the next year — from federal grant funding to major transportation upgrades and private investment.

County Opens Door for 2026 Community Grants

Cumberland County’s Community Development department released new guidelines for its 2026 Community Development Block Grant cycle. The program supports public facilities, infrastructure upgrades, and service programs aimed at improving quality of life, particularly for low- and moderate-income residents.

Funding awarded this year will roll out beginning July 1, 2026, and could support neighborhood improvements, nonprofit facility upgrades, and expanded public services. County officials say the focus remains on strengthening infrastructure while ensuring equitable access to housing and community resources.

I-295 Outer Loop Project Nears Final Milestone

On the transportation front, the final segment of Interstate 295 — the Fayetteville Outer Loop — is moving toward a targeted completion date of May 15, 2026. The 33-mile bypass connects key corridors including All American Freeway, Ramsey Street, and I-95.

Local leaders have long pointed to the loop as a catalyst for economic development. With improved freight movement and reduced congestion along city routes, the project is expected to ease commuter traffic and open new areas for commercial and residential investment.

Mixed-Use Development Gains Momentum

Meanwhile, private development continues to reshape parts of the city. The Drake Farm project, a master-planned mixed-use community off Gregg Avenue, is beginning its first multifamily phase with more than 100 apartment units planned across several buildings.

The long-term vision includes housing, retail, office space, and medical facilities within a walkable layout — a shift from traditional strip-style growth patterns. City planners and residents alike are watching closely as Fayetteville balances density, housing demand, and infrastructure capacity.

Together, these updates reflect a city in transition — managing federal dollars, preparing for long-awaited highway completion, and navigating the next phase of residential and commercial expansion.

Sources

https://www.cumberlandcountync.gov/docs/default-source/community-development-documents/2026-cdbg-guidelines-public-services-facilities.pdf?sfvrsn=2c9a2a9d_2
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interstate_295_(North_Carolina)
https://www.reddit.com/r/fayetteville/comments/1rkfi0z/drake_farm_might_be_one_of_the_most_interesting/