Goldsboro, NC – A major step forward has been taken in the creation of a new neighborhood in Goldsboro as the Golden LEAF Foundation Board of Directors announced a $500,000 grant to Habitat for Humanity of Goldsboro-Wayne to support infrastructure development for the future McNair Heights Neighborhood.
The announcement, made on Thursday, April 3, 2025, comes just weeks after the Goldsboro City Council voted in March to allocate $1.12 million to the same project. With the addition of nearly $400,000 from Habitat’s own reserves, the organization is now fully funded to begin the initial infrastructure phase of the development.
Named in honor of the late Rev. Dr. H.E. McNair, a beloved former pastor of New Stoney Hill Church, the 24.5-acre community will be located along Dr. H.E. McNair Street, just off Harris Street in Goldsboro.
“The Golden LEAF Board of Directors recognizes the need for increased workforce housing in rural areas,” said Scott T. Hamilton, Golden LEAF President and CEO. “Available housing ensures that communities can support the growing workforce for new and expanding business and industry. Golden LEAF funding will support the infrastructure for Phase I of the McNair Heights Neighborhood, which will facilitate the development of new homes in Wayne County.”
Phase 1 of the multi-phase project will include 31 new single-family homes, with at least 25 homes reserved for Habitat families. Site preparation is already underway, with infrastructure work scheduled to begin in early summer. Home construction is expected to begin in October 2025 and continue through late 2028.
This project marks a new chapter for Habitat Goldsboro-Wayne, which celebrated its 100th home build in May 2024.
“We are so excited for this neighborhood and our future homeowners,” said Executive Director Matthew Whittle. “Developing an entire neighborhood like this is a new venture for us, and we are incredibly thankful for the support from our community—especially Golden LEAF and the City of Goldsboro. This is a significant investment in our city and in people, and we can’t wait to share more as we build homes, community, and hope.”
The McNair Heights Neighborhood represents not just housing, but a long-term investment in strengthening Wayne County’s workforce, community development, and quality of life.
