Growth takes new shape in Kenansville

KENANSVILLE — While Kenansville isn’t seeing new housing development, the county seat is still growing — just in different ways. From new businesses and expanded healthcare services to major recreation and education projects, town leaders say progress is happening, even without a single new building permit for housing on the books.

The lack of any new housing construction in town makes sense when you consider there isn’t room for much more within the 2.1 square miles of the town limits. Available land for housing is limited, and what remains is family-owned with no current plans for development.

Town Manager Anna West said that although housing development is stagnant, the town is seeing new business activity and expanded services.

One new business in town, Everything Nice Sweets Bakery & Café, recently opened on Front Street near the historic county Courthouse.

West told Duplin Journal that Farm Bureau Insurance is moving its location outside of the downtown area, but will be nearby on the Kenansville Bypass. Additionally, ECU Health has recently opened a large women’s health facility on the Kenansville Bypass.

Closer to town, construction continues on the new 22,000-square-foot Workforce Development Center at James Sprunt Community College. This facility is expected to significantly enhance the college’s educational offerings and attract a larger student population to the area.

Another different type of growth in Kenansville is within the town’s Parks and Recreation Department. The town will soon begin construction on a large children’s playground area at Kenan Park. The project is funded primarily through grants and donations and is estimated to cost approximately $500,000.

West commended Parks and Recreation Director Courtney Brown for her efforts in expanding recreational opportunities and programs for the residents of Kenansville.