Fuquay-Varina Continues to Experience Record Growth

According to a recent study from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Fuquay-Varina is that state's fourth fastest growing town.

John Byrne, the town's mayor, said the area has been exploding in growth.

"We're experiencing things that a lot of other communities have already experienced here and in Wake County, and we have the advantage of learning from them," he said. 

From 2010 to 2016, Fuquay-Varina was the fourth fastest growing North Carolina town. It grows by 2,000 residents every year.

The Cartwright family is one of the many families who has moved to the area this year. 

"It's an absolutely beautiful area. I mean the people are very nice. I've been very impressed with it since I moved down here," said Thomas Cartwright.

"I've heard a lot of great things about the school district down here so I'm excited about that. There are also a lot of kids my age down here," said Colin Cartwright.

The town just made their largest purchase to date - a $35 million sewer treatment plant - which should help continue the upward trend. 

"Without water and sewer you really have a hard time growing your community," Byrne said.

With growth comes congestion, and while more traffic is expected with the new Interstate 540, the mayor said they've widened several roads and are finishing Judd Parkway.

"That's the purpose of Judd Parkway is to move traffic around the peripherals," he said.

There are new restaurants, coffee shops, mixed use residential and retail space coming to downtown. A brand new art center is scheduled to open in the next month. 

But while multiple changes are anticipated in the next year, the mayor says the town will maintain it's charm while keeping up with growth.