Company announces $1.5B investment at ILM
Frontier Scientific Solutions announced last month that it will invest $1.5 billion to build a 500,000-square-foot pharmaceutical storage facility at Wilmington International Airport’s Business Park, set to open in August 2025. The project will create over 500 jobs, making Frontier one of the top private employers in New Hanover County. Jobs in the life sciences industry, which often pay significantly higher than the state average, will drive economic growth and indirectly support an additional 2,000 jobs. This marks the first phase of Frontier’s planned expansion at ILM, positioning Wilmington as a hub for the life sciences sector.
Wilmington’s MLK Center getting new addition
Exciting changes are underway at the MLK Center on South 8th Street in Wilmington! The framework for a new high school-sized gymnasium has been installed as part of a major expansion project. The updates will include a commercial-grade kitchen, a lobby area, upgraded bathrooms, additional office space, and storage for equipment. The city anticipates completing the project by the second quarter of 2025, bringing enhanced facilities and opportunities to the community.
Shallotte Getting a New Town Hall
Shallotte is in the early stages of planning a new three-story, 28,000-square-foot municipal complex near the Riverwalk, set to include town hall offices, meeting chambers, and a police department. The facility will consolidate departments currently housed in separate buildings. While the town has approved a design and owns the land, construction is still years away as details are finalized. The project reflects Shallotte’s rapid growth, with its population doubling since 2009. Additional development in the Riverwalk area will include office, commercial, and retail spaces.
Southern Brunswick County Golf Course Closes Down, Future of the Land in Question
The Carolina Shores Golf and Country Club has officially closed, leaving members and residents uncertain about its future. The 18-hole course, which first opened in 1974, is now marked by “no trespassing” signs and remains zoned as a Conservation Recreation District. Rumors of potential development have surfaced, but the property owner, Philippe Bureau, has neither confirmed nor denied plans to sell. Meanwhile, community members express concerns about overgrowth, wildlife, and the lack of communication regarding refunds or future use of the 156-acre site. Despite the closure, many residents hope to see the course revitalized or repurposed for community benefit.
Leland has a new Burger Option
Well known Chapel Hill restaurant Al’s Burger Shack has opened its newest location in Leland. This is the chain’s third location. It’s located at the Leland Town Center, near Lowe’s Home Improvement. Known for its award-winning burgers and family-friendly vibe, the restaurant offers fresh-pattied burgers with homemade toppings, hot dogs, fries, tots, and milkshakes. Guests can enjoy outdoor seating with picnic tables and cornhole. Owned by Carolina Beach native Jason Kesler and his business partner Charlie Farris, Al’s Leland location is their first expansion outside of Chapel Hill. A grand opening celebration and fundraiser are planned for December.