The future mixed-use district around Deacon Boulevard and Baity Street is taking shape. The Grounds will become a year-round hub of food and beverage options, gathering spots, and living spaces within walking distance to some of the biggest sporting and entertainment venues in Winston-Salem. Here’s what to know about the transformative project.
Where it’s happening
The Grounds will go up on 100 acres owned by Wake Forest University in northwest Winston-Salem. The area, which is mostly vacant right now, is around LJVM Coliseum, Allegacy Stadium, David F. Couch Ballpark, Wake Forest Tennis Center, and the Winston-Salem Fairgrounds.
What to expect
Plans have been in the works for more than a year. When construction on Phase 1 is complete, you can expect to experience:
- A retail village with 40,000+ sqft of restaurants, shops, patios, and outdoor gathering spaces
- Loft-style residential units above retail space in the central plaza area
- 240-unit residential community with walking access to the retail village + green space views
- A central lawn adjacent to a new Deacon Walk up to Allegacy Stadium
- Paved, landscaped walking trail
- 100,000 sqft of office space
- Remediation of Silas Creek to reverse erosion and stream bank degradation
Who’s involved
Front Street Capital, the Winston-Salem based real estate investment + development firm behind Bailey South in Innovation Quarter, will join forces with Atlanta-based firm Carter to spearhead the project. Architecture firm Nelson will be in charge of design.
Wake Forest University leaders say the area will bolster the university’s goal of providing “The Best Fan Experience in NC” and will deepen the university’s role as a community partner.
The City of Winston-Salem also has a hand in the project. In March, it accepted $35 million the NC budget dedicated to the redevelopment.
What happens next
Carter and Front Street Capital plan to break ground on Phase 1 in December. Timelines are still being finalized — Triad Business Journal is reporting an expected completion date by the end of summer 2026. That’s when work on a hotel or condo hotel will begin. Follow @visitthegrounds for future updates.
