Rocky Mount council approves rezoning of 133.7 acres near intermodal facility to heavy industrial

The Rocky Mount City Council voted to rezone approximately 133.7 acres on Old Battleboro Road from A1 (agricultural) to I2 (heavy industrial), a move city staff and the planning board said would support anticipated economic development near the CSX intermodal facility.

Joseph Bo Cook, director of development services, told the council that staff had assessed the proposal and found "no anticipated adverse impacts to services," and that the planning board conducted a hearing and unanimously recommended approval. The property is just east of the intermodal site and the applicant shared a conceptual development plan showing industrial square footage potential.

Council members asked about likely uses in the I2 district; Cook said typical uses include manufacturing and warehousing. A handful of residents asked whether the public would be notified if a data center or other specific large use sought to develop the site. Council members responded that general statute does not require disclosure of specific development plans at rezoning, but they emphasized that particular projects would be scrutinized when proposed.

After no further questions, Councilman Blackwell moved to adopt the ordinance as recommended; Councilman Harris seconded and the motion carried by voice vote.

The council record shows the city follows public-notice procedures for rezoning, including mailing property-owner notices and posting signs on the site, and that an additional informational meeting requirement has been used to engage stakeholders.

The rezoning approval allows any land use permitted by the I2 district unless council later attaches conditions or an overlay ordinance; council members said future projects in affected neighborhoods would be reviewed and subject to applicable environmental and permitting processes.