The Regional Connection

"Good information is only valuable if it's useful. That's why Regional Connection exists. Each month, we work to simplify mass amounts of information. This month, that meant digging into our new state budget and turning hundreds of pages into a practical resource for businesses. Whether it's legislation, development, funding, education, or initiatives, I hope every issue becomes a tool you can rely on to stay informed, prepared, and connected."

-Julie Kruse-John, MPA, NCCED

VP of Operations & Public Affairs

Wake Forest Area Chamber of Commerce

LEGISLATIVE BRIEF

State Budget Approved

North Carolina's FY 2026-2027 budget has been enacted, bringing investments in transportation, workforce development, education, economic development, and regional projects that will impact businesses throughout our area.

Explore the full Budget for Your Business guide below for a detailed breakdown of the provisions most relevant to our business community.

Budget for Your Business

Our Chamber has translated the 2026-27 State Budget through the lens of the business community. Explore regional funding, policy changes, and practical takeaways in this easy-to-navigate digital guide. (Printed booklets available at the Chamber)

Click here or on the image for the interactive flipbook

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT WATCH

Rolesville

Broadmoor Moves Toward Vertical Construction- A major new residential community in Rolesville reached another development milestone as Phase 1 entered the pre-vertical permitting process, signaling that home construction is drawing closer after months of site and infrastructure work.

106-acre community located along Rolesville Road
Plans include 253 total homes across three phases
Pre-vertical permitting meeting for Phase 1 was held on July 20, 2026
Read more here

Wake Forest

Development Dashboard Debuts- The Town of Wake Forest has launched a new Development Activity Dashboard, making it easier to track projects from planning through construction.

Replaces the former Active Development Map
Includes interactive maps, project details, and public hearing information
Helps businesses stay informed about growth and development across the community
Read more here

June Wave of Commercial Permits- Wake Forest published another wave of commercial activity in June as new restaurants, healthcare providers, professional services, and mixed-use developments received permits to begin operations or construction.

New permits include Warehouse BBQ, Rivera's Pupusas Restaurant, and Novant Health
Mixed-use development continues along Burlington Mills Road
The Town updates its New Businesses Coming to Wake Forest list monthly
Read more here

Franklin County

Franklin County Refreshes Tourism Brand- Franklin County has launched a new tourism branding initiative designed to strengthen its identity, attract more visitors, and support local businesses through a unified marketing strategy.

A new brand, website, and destination marketing campaign are in development
The process begins this August with community and stakeholder engagement
Tourism generated $42 million in economic impact for Franklin County in 2024
Read more here

Regional Call to Action

Shape Future Transportation Projects- NCDOT is accepting public comments through July 31 to help prioritize projects for the 2028-2037 STIP. This is an opportunity for businesses and residents to provide input on projects for our region.

Closes July 31
Some projects appear as pins, while others are displayed as lines representing roads or greenways
Use the Chamber's graphic below to help locate the 8 regional projects that we believe are most relevant to our business community
View the Interative Project Priority Map here