📘$500 Million Highway 55 Development Update

Hey Cary, how’s your week going?

I hope it’s off to a strong start. Mine’s going well, after all, I get to write today’s newsletter!

Last week I opened up paid subscriptions for those who chose to contribute. Dozens of you signed up, and I’m very thankful. So thank you to those contributing!

By the way: I mentioned that 100% of the revenue from those subscriptions would go into Cary Digest, and I mean it. So today, I’m introducing a new referral incentive: a free dinner!

If you refer Cary Digest to at least two other people, I’ll enter you in a giveaway to win a free dinner! I’ll be drawing the winner at the beginning of April, and you’ll get 3 extra entries for each person you refer after your initial two!

Anyway, here’s what you can expect in Today’s issue:

• An update on the massive development project near Highway 55

• A great bagel spot that’s a must-try

• Raleigh-hit starting up a Cary location

• A place to load up on international pancake day!

— Jake from Cary Digest

News

$500 Million Development Project Update

Heritage Capital Partners has secured two of the three parcels required for the Alston Yards development, investing $11.135 million for 26.29 acres along Highway 55, opposite Parkside Town Commons. The project, estimated at $500 million, recently received rezoning approval from the Town of Cary, paving the way for construction to commence in early 2026.

Alston Yards is envisioned as a mixed-use community, similar to Fenton. The initial development will have:

• 250 apartments

• 15,000 to 20,000 square feet of retail space

• 50,000 square feet of office space

When completed in 2031, it’ll have a total of:

• 950 apartments

• 60,000 square feet of retail space

• 200,000 square feet of office space

• and a hotel accommodating up to 200 rooms.

This urban setting will be complemented by surrounding open spaces and greenway trails, offering residents and visitors a harmonious blend of city living and nature. Parking solutions within the development include five structured parking facilities, two of which will be enveloped by apartment buildings, alongside street-style parking options to support retail establishments.

Thank you for all of the positive feedback recently! Here are some of my favorite messages from the end-of-email poll.

Restaurant of the Week: NYBD Bagel Shop in Crescent Commons

Nestled in the heart of Cary, North Carolina, New York Bagel & Deli offers an authentic taste of New York's rich bagel tradition. Under the passionate leadership of new owners Darren and Deb since 2023, the deli has seamlessly blended time-honored recipes with a fresh, community-focused ambiance. Darren's personal touch is evident as he engages with patrons, ensuring each visit feels like a warm welcome (even when the line is out the door)!

The menu boasts a diverse selection of bagels, from classic plain to the flavorful pumpernickel everything, each baked to perfection with a crisp exterior and soft, chewy interior. Beyond bagels, their offerings include delectable pastries like the raspberry cigarillo, which has garnered rave reviews from customers. For those seeking a hearty meal, the Italian Combo sandwich and the Philly cheesesteak are standout choices.

Beyond individual delights, New York Bagel & Deli extends its culinary expertise to catering services, making it an ideal choice for events ranging from corporate gatherings to intimate celebrations. Their dedication to freshness and flavor ensures that every catered event leaves a lasting impression. Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, a stop at New York Bagel & Deli promises a genuine and satisfying experience that captures the essence of New York's beloved deli culture

Town Updates

Brewery Bhavana Expands to Cary's Fenton

One of downtown Raleigh’s most celebrated spots, Brewery Bhavana, is bringing its signature mix of craft beer and dim sum to Cary’s Fenton. The new location, set to open later this year, will have a more casual vibe than its original but still maintain the charm that made it a hit. Though slightly smaller, the space will feature a patio, courtyard, and beer garden for an inviting, open-air experience.

This expansion is part of a larger wave of new dining spots making their way to the Triangle. National favorites like Whataburger and PopUp Bagels are on the horizon, while several long-awaited openings wrapped up 2024, including Little Rey at Raleigh Iron Works and Crawford Brothers Steakhouse in Fenton. Whether you're craving Tex-Mex, steak, or Greek cuisine (courtesy of Naos Hellenic Cuisine), the local food scene is heating up fast.

Community Events

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper

Everyone and anyone is invited to tonight’s annual Pancake supper at CLC Hall within White Plains United Methodist Church. There will be plenty of games for kids and a great way to connect with the Cary community.

Things to Do This Weekend

Free Events 😄

Eager Explorers: Preschool Nature Classes | Tuesday, March 4, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM (More info)

• Location: Stevens Nature Center

• Description: A nature-based program designed for preschoolers to explore and learn about the environment through hands-on activities and guided exploration.

Downtown Cary Park Movie Series: Barbie | Friday, March 7, 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM (More info)

• Location: Downtown Cary Park

• Description: Enjoy an outdoor screening of the movie "Barbie" under the stars. Bring your blankets and chairs for a cozy evening.

Film 🎥

Ex-Husbands | Wednesday, Mar 5, 2:00 PM & Friday, Mar 7, 2:00 PM (Tickets)

• Location: The Cary Theater​

  Description: Facing a midlife crisis, a dentist crashes his son's bachelor party in Tulum in this charming drama.

Liza: A Truly Terrific Absolutely True Story | Wednesday, Mar 5, 7:30 PM & Thursday, Mar 6, 2:00 PM (Tickets)​

• Location: The Cary Theater​

  Description: A captivating performance detailing the life of a remarkable individual.​z

Hard Truths | Thursday, Mar 6, 7:30 PM & Friday, Mar 7, 5:00 PM (Tickets)​

• Location: The Cary Theater​

• Description: A thought-provoking film exploring challenging realities.​

I'm Still Here | Friday, Mar 7, 7:30 PM & Sunday, Mar 9, 12:00 PM (Tickets)​

• Location: The Cary Theater​

• Description: A 2025 Oscar-nominated film for Best Picture.​

Legally Blonde | Saturday, Mar 8, 8:00 PM (Tickets)​

• Location: The Cary Theater​

• Description: Celebrating International Women's Day with this classic comedy.

Black Barbie | Wednesday, Mar 12, 7:00 PM (Tickets)​

• Location: The Cary Theater

• Description: A free screening exploring the history and impact of Black Barbie.

For more details and additional events, please visit The Cary Theater's events page.

Music Events 🎶

Karaoke Bingo Nights | Friday, March 7, 9:00 PM

• Location: KōMANA Brewing Company, Cary

• Description: Combine the excitement of karaoke with the classic game of bingo for a unique and entertaining evening.

Thanks for reading Cary Digest! If you enjoyed the newsletter, please share it! I’ll send you another email on Tuesday so you can make some plans for next week.