Downtown Development
At the heart of Wake Forest is its carefully preserved historic downtown that showcases more than 100 independent retailers, restaurants and businesses. The more than 200 surrounding acres are being revitalized and developed, guided by a strategic and professionally designed master plan called the Renaissance Plan.
The Renaissance Plan for the Heart of Wake Forest
Developed with intensive community input, the Renaissance Plan is the revitalization roadmap for the historic downtown core and future development around the historic Central Business District.
Download the Renaissance Plan (PDF)
Wake Forest Downtown Revitalization Corporation (WFDRC)
The WFDRC, a non-profit organization founded by a group of citizens and supported by the Town of Wake Forest, provides ongoing efforts to foster the health and vitality of Downtown Wake Forest.
Streetscape Enhancement Project Update (PDF)
Download The Façade Improvement Grant Program Application
The Façade Improvement Grant Program is available to existing business and/or building owners that are located in the Renaissance Area - Historic Core zoning district as designated by the town.
View Top Retail Matches for Downtown Wake Forest
Buxton®, a leading market research company specializing in site selection for major retailers has identified the top retail matches for Downtown Wake Forest. Buxton's CommunityID® assessed the retail trade potential of the Wake Forest community and profiled its households based on lifestyle and purchase behavior. These profiles were used to determine which retailers, restauranteurs and other commercial enterprises would find success in Wake Forest.