Currently under its initial stage of development, the River Road community is planned to encompass more than 1,300 acres along the Cape Fear River, with approximately 19 acres dedicated to the New Hanover County park system. The site offers spectacular views, and is heavily wooded with towering pines, centuries-old oaks and stately maples. The topography is gently rolling with elevations reaching over 60 feet in the eastern portions, which is highly unusual for waterfront property in this region.

The groundwork for the community begins with the land – carefully studied by experts trained to understand its waterways, open spaces, topography, terrain, and opportunities and restraints.

The plan addresses the environmental issues facing the region. These issues include strategies to reduce runoff into the river, reconnect wetlands to the river system, secure natural open land space, and preserve three natural sand ridges that are home to native wildlife.

The River Road community is making a dedicated effort to maintain the land’s precious resources while building a community that will enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors in the future. It’s also about the logistical planning of new homes, new roads and other public utilities that will benefit its residents and the surrounding communities.

This upcoming community encourages relationships with neighbors, local businesses, educators, conservationists and others.

Community Facts

Based Upon Current Plan

  • River Road is planned as a mixed-use community with an estimated 2,200 planned units including approximately 1,000 multi-family units.
  • The community has approximately 20 acres slated for an active commercial village center, all planned within the architectural vernacular and lifestyle of traditional low country living.
  • River Road is planned to be developed in phases over the next 12 to 15 years.

Amenities

Area Amenities Currently Planned

  • A three-mile river walk along the Cape Fear River with various river access points, and an initial phase riverfront Marina Village.
  • The Marina Village will be comprised of several buildings including:
    • A dual use sales office and dock master building that will be a gateway experience for visitors to see the best of the area including a 122 slip marina
    • The River Club fine dining restaurant will serve as the anchor for the community, with deep porches and stunning views of the river
    • Inn cottages and a pool for guests to experience the property
    • The River Club will be a private Homeowners Association facility that will serve as the anchor building for the community. It will have access to the pool.
    • The Boathouse will be a multipurpose building housing amenities such as a provisions store, casual restaurant and bar, canoe and kayak storage and rentals and facility for UNCW Crew Team, including launch pad.
  • A vibrant commercial village core, providing retail and employment opportunities for the community at large
  • The community will include nearly 700 acres of open green space as well as a thoughtfully planned network of hiking and biking trails and neighborhood “pocket” parks.
  • A 27-acre freshwater lake
  • A beach cabana at nearby Kure Beach for community residents

Community Parnterships

As part of its commitment to being engaged in Wilmington, Newland continues its outreach to the local community. So far, Newland has established partnerships with the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, the Cape Fear Chapter of the American Red Cross, Cape Fear Cyclists, Sir Bikes-a-Lot, Downtown Wilmington and other local groups.

Newland has partnered with the University of North Carolina’s crew team and will provide a facility for the team as well as a venue for watching practices and collegiate regattas.

As the Centennial Sponsor for the Cape Fear Chapter of the American Red Cross’ Red Cross Charity Ball, Newland will be part of a celebration commemorating the 100th anniversary of the local charity and its work serving the Wilmington community.

Cape Fear Cyclists and Sir Bikes-a-Lot, a group of avid road and off-road cyclists that supports and sponsors cycling in the Wilmington area, has partnered with Newland to provide consultation in building bike lanes along both sides of River Road and off-road paths within the community for mountain biking.