Downtown Rocky Mount Revival Gains Momentum

Have your say: Twin County Media wants residents and stakeholders to help shape downtown Rocky Mount's next phase of growth. Take the brief Downtown Rocky Mount Community Input Survey to share what you’d like to see—whether it’s more dining, shopping, events, green space, or something new.

By the numbers:

$30M+ in active downtown projects

$425K in city grants for the Epstein Building

$1.26M total Epstein Building investment

Driving the news: Once a hub for railroads, mills, and tobacco, downtown Rocky Mount is entering a new economic chapter fueled by historic preservation, mixed-use projects, and public-private partnerships.

Key projects:

Mayo & Gorham Building – 120-year-old landmark at 101–110 N. Washington St. undergoing renovation by Cary-based Union3 Studio’s Milan Mehta. The project blends preserved historic features with modern commercial use.

Nasir Dukes Mixed-Use Development – Multi-million-dollar project with upscale apartments, retail, a restaurant, and rooftop lounge. Dukes, a 2024 NC Main Street Champion, is aiming to create a nightlife and weekend draw downtown.

Epstein Building – East Main St. property owned by Krishna Battula and Anuja Yerra, also working with Mehta. Plans include 4 ground-floor commercial units and 5 market-rate apartments. Backed by city grants, loans, and incentives.

Why it matters: Developers from inside and outside the region are betting on downtown’s potential, leveraging city incentives like the Downtown Major Investment Incentive to bridge funding gaps.

The big picture: The projects reflect a broader strategy—restore legacy buildings, add residential density, and create a blend of retail, dining, and entertainment to bring 24/7 activity to downtown.

What’s next: Take the Downtown Rocky Mount Community Input Survey today to share your vision for the city’s future. Your feedback will guide the next wave of investment and development.