The Southern Pines Parking Review is sparking new conversations about the future of downtown as town leaders work to balance growth, business needs, walkability, and the character that has made Southern Pines one of North Carolina’s most popular small towns.
For years, parking has been one of the most discussed topics among residents, visitors, and business owners. While some people say finding a parking spot downtown can be challenging during busy times, others worry that adding too much parking could change the look and feel of the community.
Now, town officials are exploring what they call “right-sized parking” as part of the community’s long-term planning efforts.
What Is the Southern Pines Parking Review?
The discussion stems from recommendations included in Southern Pines’ 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which guides future growth and development throughout the town.
Rather than simply adding more parking spaces, planners are studying ways to ensure parking is appropriate for each area while preserving walkability, supporting local businesses, and protecting the unique character of downtown.
Town Planner Kenan Dail says the goal is not to eliminate parking or create parking shortages. Instead, the objective is to find a balance that provides enough parking without creating oversized lots that sit mostly empty.
The Southern Pines Parking Review aims to ensure future parking policies support the community’s long-term vision while allowing for continued redevelopment and investment.
Why Parking Is Such a Big Issue
Downtown Southern Pines relies heavily on public street parking and smaller parking lots. Unlike many commercial districts, businesses in the historic downtown area are generally not required to provide a specific number of parking spaces.
Town officials recently created a visual illustration showing what downtown might look like if every business had to meet traditional parking minimum requirements.
The result was dramatic.
According to planners, the roughly 10-block downtown district would require more than 2,100 parking spaces—approximately three times the number of public spaces currently available.
Officials say that amount of pavement would significantly alter the appearance of downtown and could reduce opportunities for businesses, green space, and future development.
What Does “Right-Sized Parking” Mean?
As part of the Southern Pines Parking Review, town staff are focusing on several key goals:
- Reducing excess pavement and underused parking lots.
- Encouraging visitors to park once and walk between destinations.
- Preserving trees and green space.
- Reducing stormwater runoff impacts.
- Supporting redevelopment and future investment opportunities.
Officials believe these principles can help Southern Pines continue growing while maintaining the charm that attracts residents and visitors to the Sandhills.
Community Feedback Will Help Shape the Outcome
The Southern Pines Planning Board is expected to discuss the issue during its June 18 meeting and may create a subcommittee to further study parking options and gather public input.
Residents are encouraged to participate in the conversation through the town’s public engagement portal at engage.zencity.io.
The Southern Pines Parking Review could influence future development decisions for years to come. Whether residents prioritize convenience, walkability, economic growth, or preserving downtown character, town leaders say public input will play an important role in shaping the final outcome.
For more local government, development, and community news from Southern Pines, Aberdeen, Pinehurst, and across Moore County, stay connected with Star 102.5 and Sandhills News.
