Construction is reshaping Sanford and Lee County as thousands of new homes, major retailers, restaurants and public projects move forward across the community.
Lee County is now among North Carolina’s 10 fastest-growing counties. Its population increased from just over 62,000 in 2020 to more than 70,000 in 2025, representing growth of approximately 13 percent. The county could surpass 75,000 residents within the next several years.
Sanford’s population is currently approaching 35,000, and some projections suggest the city could double in size by 2050.
Thousands of New Homes Planned Around Sanford
The City of Sanford has approved more than 12,000 residential units during the past five years. Those approvals include single-family homes, townhomes and apartments across several large developments.
Adams Village, located near Walmart along N.C. 87, is expected to include 250 single-family lots and 231 townhomes. The development will also feature more than 30 acres of commercial space.
Ashby Village, planned along South Horner Boulevard near Lowe’s Home Improvement, calls for 250 single-family homes, 200 townhomes and 350 apartments. The community is eventually expected to connect with Lee County Athletic Park.
Other major projects include the approximately 1,000-unit Galvin’s Ridge development near U.S. 1 and Colon Road and the proposed 1,219-home Vermillion community along Riddle Road.
Additional residential projects are moving forward in Tramway, Lemon Springs, Cameron and other parts of Lee County.
Target Leads Sanford’s Retail Expansion
One of the most closely watched projects is the redevelopment of Riverbirch Corner in west Sanford. Crews are clearing land for a new Target and several other businesses.
According to the Sanford Area Growth Alliance, Target is expected to celebrate its grand opening in the fall of 2027. The redevelopment is also expected to include a grocery store that is new to the Sanford market, although the company operating that store has not been announced.
BJ’s Wholesale Club and Ulta Beauty are planned for the commercial section of Adams Village. A new Provision Ace Hardware is also under construction near U.S. 1 and Tramway Road, while a Firestone Complete Auto Care location is planned along N.C. 87.
A separate development proposed along Kelly Drive could include a 45,000-square-foot grocery store, hotel and additional retail space.
More Restaurants Coming to Sanford
Sanford’s restaurant selection is also expanding. The city’s first Chipotle recently opened along N.C. 87 near Lidl.
Dairi-O is under construction in Tramway, while Olive Garden and Whataburger are expected to join the Adams Village development. Olive Garden is currently expected to open in 2027.
Additional restaurant plans include a proposed Culver’s on Tramway Road, Del Taco on South Horner Boulevard and a new CiCi’s Pizza on Spring Lane.
Wedgies, the Southern Pines-based sandwich shop, is preparing to open its second location inside the former Java Express space in downtown Sanford. A proposal for a third Sanford-area Starbucks is also under consideration for Tramway.
Schools and Public Facilities Prepare for Growth
Local leaders are also considering how the area’s schools and public services will accommodate additional residents.
Planning is underway for Lee County’s ninth public elementary school. The proposed school would serve approximately 800 students and is currently projected to cost $56 million.
Grace Christian School has announced a two-phase, $98 million expansion that would include new academic buildings, athletic fields and a stadium with seating for approximately 2,000 spectators.
Several major community projects have already been completed. The new $24 million Lee County Library opened during the spring, while Lee County Athletic Park is approaching its first anniversary. Sanford has also opened the Pilgrim’s Sanford Agricultural Marketplace and completed renovations to the historic Sanford Depot.
Road and Economic Development Projects Advance
The North Carolina Department of Transportation is widening approximately five miles of Broadway Road between Sanford and Broadway. The $55.2 million project includes additional lanes, turn-lane improvements, raised medians and new sidewalks.
Sanford and Lee County leaders are also pursuing a confidential economic development project that could create as many as 335 jobs and generate more than $600 million in new investment.
Meanwhile, pharmaceutical manufacturer Kyowa Kirin is investing more than $500 million in a new Sanford facility. A developer has also proposed a 300,000-square-foot data center on 56 acres near Lower Moncure Road.
With projects ranging from new subdivisions and restaurants to schools and major employers, construction is likely to remain a familiar sight as Sanford and Lee County prepare for continued population growth.
Source: Based on original reporting published by The Rant on August 4, 2026. Project details and timelines may change as development plans move through construction and government review.
