If you’ve lived in or around Wilmington for a while, you know that Leland has quickly grown into the region’s first true “bedroom community.” Many families, professionals, and retirees now call Leland home while still enjoying close proximity to all that Wilmington offers. But what’s exciting is that Leland itself is shaping up to be more than just a place to sleep — it’s planning for the future in a big way.
Right now, a massive 1,400-acre site in Leland is being considered for a rezoning and annexation that could completely reshape the town’s landscape. Once envisioned as the potential site of a minor league baseball stadium, this land may soon become something even more impactful: a mixed-use community with new homes, restaurants, shops, and even a future school.
The proposal splits the land into two key zoning types:
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Planned Unit Development (PUD): About 928 acres would allow for homes of different types (from single-family to apartments), as well as things like senior living, daycares, and recreational facilities.
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FlexCode Zone: About 512 acres would focus on creating a walkable, mixed-use community with restaurants, shops, offices, cultural spaces, and more — essentially places where residents can live, work, and play without needing to drive far.
What’s especially exciting is that the plan divides the development into five subareas, each with its own purpose. One area is reserved for a potential school site, while the others would primarily be residential with access to dining, retail, and recreation.
Of course, growth on this scale doesn’t happen overnight. This project is expected to be built in phases over many years, with water, sewer, and road infrastructure rolling out as each section develops. The idea is to ensure growth happens responsibly, keeping pace with the needs of the community.
For Leland residents — and for people considering moving here — this means more options. More choices for housing. More local shops and restaurants. More opportunities to stay close to home instead of always crossing the bridge into Wilmington.
It’s just the latest sign that Leland is not only Wilmington’s first true bedroom community, but also a town with its own big identity and vision for the future.