Greenway Conversations: Pittsboro’s Next Big Step Toward Connectivity

photo credit: https://www.theplantnc.com/post/greenway-conversations

Something exciting is taking shape in Pittsboro. A new park is coming to life next to The Plant, and with it, a vision for how residents can live, move, and connect in a more walkable, bike-friendly town.

The park is part of a larger development deal with the Town of Pittsboro that also brings 1,100 new townhomes and apartments stretching from the north side of The Plant out to Highway 64 Business. It is a major step in shaping Pittsboro’s future growth, and it is not just about housing.

Why Greenways Matter

At the center of this conversation is something that often gets overlooked in development: greenway connectivity. Today, Pittsboro already has a wonderful greenway segment running from 15-501 near Horton Middle School across to Small Street by Melinda’s Country Farm and Home. Another extension is underway, connecting that path to the Chatham County Fair Grounds, where Habitat for Humanity is building a 72-unit neighborhood.

The missing piece is a third segment that would connect the Fair Grounds to the new park. With this link, Pittsboro would unlock true bikeable and walkable access to the park and The Plant. Without it, the new space risks becoming a “drive-to” park rather than a fully integrated part of town life.

A Vision for a “Cool Town”

As one steering committee member put it: “There are two kinds of towns in this world: cool towns that have greenway connectivity, and uncool towns that don’t. This is our chance to be a cool town.”

That vision is now in motion, with local leaders, advisory boards, and community members working through maps, meetings, and planning sessions to make it happen. The hope is that Pittsboro will join the ranks of towns where parks, trails, and neighborhoods are connected, encouraging a lifestyle where you can walk or bike to recreation, dining, and entertainment.

What This Means for Real Estate

For future homeowners and investors, projects like this are more than just amenities. They are value-drivers. Parks and greenways improve quality of life, boost property values, and make a town more attractive to new residents. With 1,100 new homes coming, plus the growing momentum around walkability, Pittsboro is positioning itself as a vibrant, connected, and yes, cool place to live.