Commissioners weigh access options for 197‑acre parcel off Highway 87; staff tasked to investigate easements and costs

Engineers presented options to the Harnett County Board of Commissioners on June 9 for accessing a donated tract of roughly 197 acres off Highway 87.

Andy Mills, an engineer on the project, told the board the field survey and wetlands review show roughly 175 acres of potentially buildable land but that existing access is limited to an unimproved gravel drive. Mills said options include negotiating a purchase or easement across an adjacent triangular parcel and pursuing a separate connection to Nursery Road that will require coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Fort Bragg.

Commissioners debated the property’s highest public value. Some favored preserving open space and using the tract for a future station site or park, while others pushed for identifying areas suitable for affordable housing or limited commercial uses. Concerns were raised about the time and complexity of obtaining permanent easements and the potential impacts of routing traffic through neighboring residential areas.

The board directed staff to investigate land‑acquisition options and estimated costs and to initiate contact with Fort Bragg regarding a possible Nursery Road connection. A commissioner was designated to lead outreach on the matter and staff will return with findings and cost estimates.

Next steps: staff will develop cost estimates, pursue discussions with adjacent parcel owners about easements or purchase, and report back to the board with recommended access routes and possible uses for the property.