POPULATION 20,000
As one of the fastest growing towns in the Charlotte, North Carolina orbit, the Town of Harrisburg needed a clear, data-driven economic development strategy to attract targeted industries and refine local business incentives, while at the same time guiding sustainable growth. Harrisburg has witnessed explosive growth over the last decade, with population nearly doubling. This growth was primarily driven by its Charlotte proximity, new housing, and strong economy, attracting families with new amenities, good schools, and a mix of quiet living with city access. On the other hand, the rapid influx brought new development and infrastructure challenges. New construction was booming and developments were adding to the housing stock, but mostly for those seeking larger homes for better value. Increased tax revenue funding infrastructure has led to more shopping, dining and community events. In view of the expectation that the population of the Town of Harrisburg will reach 30,000 in the coming decade, there is need for additional infrastructure construction, economic diversification, and controlled growth.
The plan that was developed:
- Created a sector-specific economic development roadmap, identifying high value industries aligned with Harrisburg’s assets and vision.
- Developed a modernized, flexible incentives strategy that ensures competitive positioning while preserving fiscal responsibility.
- Positioned the Town to proactively shape its growth, resulting in enhanced readiness for high-impact business recruitment.
- Supported long-term community value creation through strategies that balance development with identify and infrastructure capacity.
- The strategies will enable the Town of Harrisburg to retain its strong sense of community, benefit from the good schools of Cabarrus County and promote its access to green spaces and a mix of small town feel with modern conveniences.
