By Nicky Smith, Candidate for Greensboro City Council District 4
February 24, 2025
Greensboro is a city on the rise, and as we continue to grow, we must embrace innovative, community-driven developments that enhance our neighborhoods while respecting our shared values. After an in-depth meeting with Roy Carroll and his team regarding the proposed mixed-use development at Friendly Avenue and Hobbs Road, I am proud to give this project my full and unwavering support.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this project is the extensive community input that has shaped its design. The Carroll Companies began gathering feedback from residents as early as 2019, and their commitment to incorporating these perspectives has remained steadfast. This is not a one-size-fits-all development imposed on the neighborhood; rather, it is a carefully curated vision that aligns with the community’s desire for a mix of uses while avoiding the pitfalls of traditional strip malls and sprawling parking lots.
Roy Carroll’s passion for excellence is evident in every detail of this development. The boutique hotel, designed to resemble brownstone townhomes, will blend seamlessly with the surrounding residential area. Thoughtful architectural features, such as faux doorways and windows, will ensure that the development maintains a welcoming, neighborhood-friendly feel. Moreover, the use of high-quality, durable materials guarantees that this project will stand the test of time, serving as a landmark of elegance and functionality in our community.
A key priority of this development is its pedestrian-friendly design. The vision is to create a lively, walkable environment featuring upscale restaurants, boutique retail shops, and well-integrated office and residential spaces. With structured parking strategically placed underground, the focus remains on fostering a dynamic, community-oriented atmosphere rather than a sea of asphalt.
Recognizing the challenges presented by the site’s 16-foot elevation drop, the Carroll Companies have devised innovative solutions to maintain both accessibility and aesthetics. A three-story parking structure will be mostly underground, doubling as a retaining wall to preserve the site’s natural flow. This design not only enhances the visual appeal but also ensures ADA compliance, allowing for seamless navigation throughout the development.
Additionally, careful planning has gone into traffic management. With multiple access points on Friendly Avenue and Hobbs Road and ongoing collaboration with GDOT for necessary improvements, the development aims to mitigate congestion while enhancing connectivity. Importantly, the project has been structured to avoid the inclusion of high-traffic businesses such as fast-food chains, ensuring a more harmonious fit within the existing neighborhood.
Beyond its aesthetic and functional benefits, this development represents a tremendous economic opportunity for Greensboro. With high-end retail and dining establishments showing strong interest, this project will not only generate new jobs but also significantly boost our city’s property tax base. This, in turn, will contribute to funding essential public services that benefit our entire community.
This project goes above and beyond in addressing concerns about neighborhood impact. A generous landscaping buffer—including a 20-foot-wide zone of evergreen trees—will provide a natural transition between the development and existing homes. Furthermore, all lighting will be designed to minimize spillage onto neighboring properties, adhering strictly to city ordinances.
The development will also adhere to stringent stormwater management regulations, ensuring responsible environmental stewardship. By prioritizing sustainability and thoughtful urban planning, this project sets a new standard for responsible growth in Greensboro.
As a candidate for Greensboro City Council District 4, I am committed to supporting developments that elevate our city while respecting the voices of our residents. Roy Carroll’s vision for Friendly Avenue embodies the perfect balance of progress and community harmony. It is an investment in Greensboro’s future—one that promises beauty, economic vitality, and a higher quality of life for all who call this city home.
I wholeheartedly endorse this project, and I encourage my fellow residents to do the same. With honesty, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, this development will serve as a beacon of what is possible when visionary leadership meets community collaboration.
Let’s build a Greensboro we can all be proud of—together.
