I95-I40 Crossroads of America Economic Development Alliance

The I-95 / I-40 Crossroads of America Economic Development Alliance exists to promote economic growth in Southern Johnston County and Eastern Harnett County, NC. They partnered with the Town of Dunn to develop the property located at 600 South Magnolia Avenue to transform the historic two-story elementary school originally constructed in 1919 into a modern facility supporting education, office, event, and meeting functions. Construction began in May 2024 and was completed in November 2025, with Central Carolina Community College partnering with the Town of Dunn to use the space for their Triangle South Enterprise Center (TSEC), which provides skills training for local industry workforce needs, soft landing space for relocating and emerging industries, and small business incubator space focused on the technology sector.

The project involved the renovation of approximately 30,144 square feet of existing space and the addition of a new 1,551-square-foot two-story lobby entrance constructed directly adjacent to the historic structure. Interior renovations reconfigured the building to accommodate classrooms, offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces, along with a fully renovated commercial kitchen and associated support areas. Building system upgrades included the installation of a new sprinkler system and a two-stop elevator located within the existing building to improve accessibility. Due to the age of the building, some of the project challenges included compromised frame members, steel sash windows, and removing plaster walls for new wall assemblies.

Site improvements were a significant component of the project and included the development of approximately 70 new parking spaces, accessible ramps and walkways, and complete installation of new utility and service connections.

Delivered through a negotiated build delivery method, the project began with an original contract amount of $13,192,865 and was completed at a final contract value of $13,270,696. Through careful planning, coordination, and cost management, CT Wilson successfully revitalized the historic facility while integrating modern building systems and infrastructure to support the long-term needs of the I-95 / I-40 Alliance.

  • Location: Dunn, NC
  • Cost: $13,270,696
  • Size: 30,144 sq. ft. (existing) + 1,551 sq. ft. (new)
  • Year: 2024-2025
  • Duration:  578 days
  • Owner: I-95 / I-40 Alliance
  • Architect/Engineer: Tise-Kiester Architects
  • Categories: Community / Educational / Adaptive Reuse