Another boon to McAdenville’s economy is a new development of Saussy Burbank homes called McAdenville Village. About 189 neo-traditional-style homes are being built on lots formerly occupied by mill houses. The development is expected to double McAdenville’s population.
With about 70,000 residents, the city of Gastonia is becoming a popular spot for development. Affordability is one of Gastonia’s greatest draws. Compared to neighborhoods in Myers Park and Dilworth, it offers charming colonial, Tudor and traditional homes for a fraction of the price.
Once only developed along its southeastern sections, Gastonia has recently seen a number of new developments arise amidst its older homes. In northeast Gastonia along the established neighborhoods of Modena Street, two developments are integrating the heritage of old neighborhoods with the thrill of new ones.
Modeling the architecture of Dilworth, Sundance Village is a 160-home subdivision that appeals to moderate-income homebuyers. Additionally, the 33-home subdivision of Vinales offers similar incentives less than a mile away from Sundance Village.
Both developments feature sidewalks and walking trails, and Sundance Village includes a playground and community swimming pool.
In addition to its reasonably priced real estate, Gaston County also offers numerous natural areas that a more urban landscape lacks.
One such attribute is the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden on South New Hope Road in Belmont, which features a number of landscaped gardens with distinct themes, as well as a visitors’ center. With 158,000 square feet of planting beds, the Garden is undergoing long-term development as part of its 450-acre Master Plan.
Just across the Catawba River from Belmont, the U.S. National Whitewater Center provides 300 acres of recreation. An Olympic-caliber training site, the center features an artificial river with adaptable rapids for different levels of paddlers. Also part of the center are climbing facilities, trails for biking and hiking, and a 37-acre island for camping.
About 20 minutes west of Belmont, Crowders Mountain State Park makes a great day trip. The park covers 5,000 acres and includes 12 miles of hiking trails that lead to Crowders Mountain and Kings Pinnacle. It is also a popular spot for rock climbing.
Just across the state line from Crowders Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain National Military Park and Kings Mountain State Park add another 10,000 acres of recreation. Kings Mountain was the site of a major Revolutionary War battle that is considered one of the turning points in the war. The military park includes a 1.5-mile trail with historic markers and a half-hour film depicting the events of the battle. Along with Kings Mountain State Park, the two parks offer 32 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails. Kings Mountain State Park also includes a 115-site campground that is open year-round. |