Plans to update an area near Echo Farms has been delayed

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– A delay was made on the proposed development in the Echo Farms neighborhood. Residents who were at the board of adjustment meeting, at the Skyline Center, were hoping to protest against the plans to build 2 fast food restaurants, with a cut through road, which would also be close to existing residential housing.

They were hoping to hear a presentation by the developers, but Zac Smith, with the City of Wilmington, delivered some disappointing news.

“There is no presentation this afternoon, we are just asking a continuance for the February meeting,” said Smith.

The delay will likely frustrate residents who are protesting the plan by the developer– Tanner Postal Commercial Real Estate. Residents say the plans would cause issues on road not designed to handle a potential increase in traffic, along with concerns about the safety of their kids due to the traffic increase.

In a statement sent to WWAY, Internet Optics LLC, who owns the property on Carolina Beach Road said this.

“Internet Optics, LLC wants to clarify our role in this matter. We own the property along Carolina Beach Road, but we are not the developer, and we are not the restaurant operator. The project is being pursued by a prospective buyer with significant experience and a track record working with top-tier, nationally recognized restaurant franchises. In our view, a restaurant on a signalized, highway-frontage corner parcel that is zoned Highway Business is an appropriate use consistent with how this corridor is planned and regulated.

We also hear and respect the concerns being raised by some nearby residents—particularly around traffic and cut-through impacts.  The developer is prioritizing an access plan that reduces reliance on Echo Farms Boulevard, while still going through the City’s normal review, mitigation, and approval process.

Finally, this location directly aligns with the City’s “Walk Wilmington” direction and the reality on the ground. Echo Farms Park is a major community destination directly across the street, yet there are no food or beverage options on-site—not even vending machines. A well-managed, franchise restaurant at this location can serve park users and nearby residents, help meet an existing convenience need, and potentially reduce additional driving for basic food and beverage trips—while still being subject to the City’s standard oversight and traffic/operational requirements.”

— A spokesperson for Internet Optics, LLC