By Alice Pulliam 

Staff Writer

    In the heart of Winston-Salem, just steps from Wake Forest University, an exciting new project is underway: The Grounds. Envision a space that combines sports, retail, entertainment, and dining all in one. A place that will redefine Winston-Salem while bringing the community together. 

    The Grounds is a 100-acre local development that will feature a pedestrian-friendly retail village, residential living, office spaces, and a paved walking trail. It will also improve nearby roads and utilities, including Silas Creek. More than just creating new businesses and opportunities, The Grounds aims to foster a renewed sense of community. With vibrant entertainment, it will bring a new wave of intense energy to the city and pride for all who live there.

    The project will be introduced in three phases. Phase one will include retail units such as shopping and dining. Jane Duncan, who runs marketing and communications for The Grounds project–in addition to being an alumni editor for The Pine Whispers– explained that phase one is expected to open in late spring or summer of 2027.

    “Picture a combination of sandwich or smoothie shops with some fine dining, fitness, and boutiques for shopping,” Duncan said.

    Currently, there are not many options for lodging near Wake Forest University for parents visiting during games or Parents’ Weekend. In addition to residential units, The Grounds will also include a hotel designed to give visitors an exciting place to stay while showcasing the city’s newest development.

    “We’re designing it so that it feels like a part of Winston-Salem, a huge part,” Duncan said.

    With its wide range of new developments and retailers, The Grounds is expected to have a major positive economic impact on Winston-Salem and is estimated to bring in around $1.3 billion for the city and county. Although The Grounds will be located close to Wake and provide housing for students and additional office space for WFU employees, it will be a designated area for everyone. The Grounds will cater to the needs of all age groups.

    “I have two young kids. I can’t wait to have another place for us to go… I definitely see it as a place to welcome everybody in Winston-Salem.” Duncan said.

       The Grounds will undeniably have something for everyone. With a new sports bar, fans will have a place to go and cheer on their favorite teams, while fitness and outdoor spaces will give residents additional opportunities to stay active. 

   A major cornerstone of this project is the restoration of Silas Creek, which had previously suffered severe erosion. The creek has been rerouted and restored, to improve water flow, and, once completed, will be transformed into a greenway featuring native plants and more than a mile of walking and biking paths. 

    For those looking to grab a fresh cup of coffee or spend time shopping, The Grounds will be the perfect place to go. Phase one will include 13-14 different retail stores exclusive to The Grounds. The future retailers are planned to be announced in early 2026. 

    “[The retailers] are really curated to feel special and unique, like you’re not going to see Starbucks, but you will see a really cool coffee shop… and some boutiques,” Duncan said. 

  As anticipation continues to build, developers hope The Grounds will become a lasting staple of Winston-Salem, a place embraced by both residents and visitors.

    “I can see the grounds being a place where you go on a Saturday… you may not know exactly what you’re going to do, but there’s a whole lot of things you could do there,” Duncan said.