Issue link: http://townofcary.uberflip.com/i/791946
Protecting and Enhancing Existing Neighborhoods Cary had a significant housing boom over the last two decades, comprising nearly 90% of the housing stock in Cary's neighborhoods. In 2013, the Town had approximately 4,000 homes that were more than 40 years old, most of them located proximate to downtown. By 2032, it is es mated that 23,000 homes will be 40 years old. Looking long-term, these aging neighborhoods will need maintenance and investment to maintain a rac veness to new home buyers and renters. Need to Maintain Quality Neighborhoods With the passing of me, neighborhoods do age and change. The aging of a neighborhood brings many things: vegeta on and trees become mature, families grow up, and a neighborhood feels "established." But challenges can also arise. Many communi es across the U.S. have experienced challenges in maintaining older neighborhoods. Issues range from neighborhood disinvestment and housing vacancies, to redevelopment of lots that is out of character with surrounding homes. Redevelopment and infill development can be opportuni es to modernize homes and neighborhoods, while also upholding the unique character and design of a neighborhood. Some neighborhoods in Cary were developed along major roads that have been improved and widened over me. This can o en lessen the desirability of the homes along corridors due to traffic and noise impacts. These contexts might be good opportuni es to evaluate a change to a more appropriate use that fits the changed environment. Challenges of Aging Housing and Neighborhoods 2032 2012 CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES Cary's 40+ Year Old Homes in 2012 Cary's 40+ Year Old Homes in 2032 Over me, roads have been widened in Cary to address traffic conges on, and have resulted in nega ve impacts to homes that front these roads. These impacts include more traffic, noise, and losing the sense of character that the narrower road once provided. 19