Leland, NC annexation traffic congestion & school overcrowding impacts averted

May 2023: Residents of Leland, NC were deeply concerned about the impact of rapid growth on their quality of life. Leland is located just west of Wilmington, NC. An analysis drafted by CEDS documented that traffic congestion on the main highway was already projected to become severe. While it was possible that adding lanes and other measures might forestall traffic impacts, no such improvements were slated before further growth would occur. Schools serving the area were also at or projected to be over capacity; again with no plans to address the issue through additions to existing schools or new buildings. The residents were most concerned about the proposed annexation of a 29-acre parcel into the Town of Leland that would have been developed as 300 multifamily units. CEDS assisted the residents in organizing a number of area neighborhoods into the Leland Responsible Growth Alliance. However, the developer withdrew the annexation request. Our analysis of growth impacts and solutions is posted at: https://app.box.com/s/nhlemijiwipvjk6mlqz0jdmel0eiqxzf.

July 2023: I wanted to share some new information pertaining to the project you assisted us with here in Leland. Not only has the petition for voluntary annexation into the Town of Leland been withdrawn for the subject party, but we were recently successful in getting a bill passed at the state level placing an indefinite moratorium on Leland’s ability to annex! This is fantastic news for those of us that want to pump the brakes on development. Thank you again for all of your help and insight with this.

For further detail on how CEDS can help visit the Traffic, Development & Neighborhood Quality of Life webpage or contact us at 410-654-3021 or help@ceds.org.