Contributed
In Elizabethtown’s 250-year history, there are many stories of resilient people who fought hard to make a living and create a safe home for their families and future generations.
One example is the New Town neighborhood bordered by Hwy 701 (Poplar Street), Peanut Plant Road, and Swanzy Street. This once-prosperous African-American neighborhood has seen an increase in crime, property neglect, and unsafe living conditions. The Town of Elizabethtown is focusing a multi-faceted revitalization program to create a safe and prosperous environment for all its residents.
Founded in the late 1860s by freed African Americans as a center of religion, education, business, and employment, New Town grew in response partially to the housing needs for workers in Elizabethtown’s primary industry. Employing over 1,100 people, Greene Brothers Lumber Mill was the largest mill in the southeast. African American laborers found the lumber mills a better place to work rather than area farms.
As a result, Ben Street (the former name of MLK Drive) became a commerce hub offering all types of services, from barbers and hair stylists to mechanics and convenience stores. Further down the street was the Bladen County Training School, the first high school for Black people in the county when it opened in 1928. The former Rosenwald School is one of a handful of places in town listed on the National Historic Register.
Eventually, Poplar Street (Highway 701) bypassed the area, and businesses moved to the new highway. The loss of the lumber mills in the 1960s and ‘70s coupled with the area’s slow decline.
The Town is advancing several revitalization projects, including constructing a new Community Center. Following feedback from residents, businesses, clergy, and youth, the final design has been approved, and the construction contract was confirmed at the August meeting.
The Town’s Pedestrian Plan highlighted the need for better connectivity between New Town and local schools. To address this, improvements like new sidewalks, bike lanes, street lighting, and streetscaping are underway. Recently, Dunham Street’s sidewalks and lighting were installed to link New Town with the Poplar Street business district through a grant from the Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant. Additionally, the Department of Transportation’s “Safe Streets for All” program will help develop plans to upgrade infrastructure along MLK Dr., Peanut Plant Road, and Swanzy Street.
In 2022, Elizabethtown, including New Town, was selected for the National Department of Transportation’s “Thriving Communities” program. This initiative provides planning, technical assistance, and support, helping New Town capitalize on resources and achieve its objectives.
As New Town progresses, its deep-rooted history and community spirit will continue to shape its future, preserving its cherished role in Elizabethtown’s heritage.
Author: staff report
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