Key Initiatives

Smiling woman running a fresh strawberry booth at a local farmers market.

Zebulon’s economic development strategy is guided by five focus areas that reflect community priorities, local strengths, and long-term goals for sustainable growth. Together, these focus areas shape how the Town approaches investment, business support, infrastructure, and quality of life over the next five years.

Each focus area includes key priorities that help direct where the Town concentrates its time, energy, and resources, along with supporting initiatives that strengthen overall impact. These focus areas were informed by community input, local leadership, and research, and serve as a framework for ongoing action and decision-making.

Zebulon builds on the strength of its regional connections by working collaboratively with partners across Wake County and the broader region. By recognizing what already exists nearby and focusing on strategic partnerships, the Town supports smart, sustainable growth without duplicating resources.

Key Priorities Include:

  • Strengthening partnerships with Wake Technical Community College, including the future Eastern Wake 4.0 Campus, to support workforce development, business recruitment, and existing industry.

  • Collaborating with Wake County and neighboring communities on shared economic development and workforce initiatives.

Zebulon is committed to fostering an economy that benefits the entire community. As investment and growth continue, the Town prioritizes equitable strategies that support residents, protect community character, and provide access to opportunity.

Key priorities include:

  • Implementing strategies to mitigate displacement and gentrification so longtime residents are not priced out or pushed out as the community grows.

  • Supporting a balanced mix of housing options across a range of price points and housing types to ensure Zebulon remains an attractive and livable place.

Additional focus:

  • Expanding access to well-paying jobs and career pathways.

  • Supporting access to everyday amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment.

  • Recognizing that not every amenity must be located within Town limits and that regional access plays an important role.

Downtown Zebulon and the Five County development area remain central to the Town’s economic future. These areas reflect Zebulon’s history while offering opportunities for thoughtful redevelopment and investment.

Key priorities include:

  • Advancing redevelopment of the Five County area as a catalyst for surrounding growth and regional connectivity.

  • Enhancing walkability, infrastructure, and connectivity, particularly in Downtown Zebulon, while preserving local character.

  • Proactively recruiting target industries such as life sciences, food manufacturing, and advanced manufacturing.

Additional focus:

  • Supporting a diverse mix of downtown businesses and experiences that reinforce quality of life.

  • Strengthening industrial areas through targeted recruitment and focused marketing efforts.

Zebulon supports businesses at every stage, from startups to established employers, by fostering entrepreneurship, reducing barriers, and creating a welcoming business environment.

Key priorities include:

  • Partnering with Wake Tech to establish a local launch program that supports entrepreneurs through training, mentorship, and resources.

  • Diversifying the Town’s tax base by supporting a wide range of business types.

  • Streamlining processes and improving coordination with Town staff to make it easier to do business in Zebulon.

Additional focus:

  • Supporting entrepreneurship through partnerships with educational institutions and regional organizations.

  • Taking a coordinated, regional approach to business recruitment and retention.

  • Engaging community leaders in shaping intentional business development strategies.

Preparing for growth means ensuring Zebulon’s infrastructure, transportation, and land use decisions support long-term resilience. Economic readiness allows the Town to adapt, attract investment, and avoid overdevelopment.

Key priorities include:

  • Addressing traffic and mobility needs in alignment with the Grow Zebulon Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

  • Maintaining and expanding utilities and infrastructure, including water, sewer, and broadband.

  • Advocating for regional transportation improvements, including transit and rail options.

  • Managing land use carefully to reflect long-term goals and resource limitations.

Smiling woman at a table beside a pop-up banner promoting Wake Tech.