New Industrial Park To Bring 150-200 Jobs To Smithfield

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – The Smithfield Town Council unanimously approved plans for a new light industrial subdivision during its March 17 meeting, clearing the way for the development just outside town limits.

The project, known as Clarius Park, will transform approximately 75.61 acres along US Highway 70 Business, near the northern edge of Smithfield’s extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) and across from St. Ann’s Catholic Church.

Proposed by Clarius Partners, LLC, of Illinois, the subdivision will include four developable light industrial lots, a shared private cul-de-sac, and common open space with stormwater management facilities.

Project Details

The development is designed as a “Class A” industrial park and will feature:

• Four light industrial lots
• A private cul-de-sac built to town standards
• Shared stormwater systems and open space
• A 100-foot undisturbed wooded buffer along the northern boundary

Access to the site will come from two locations along US 70 Business: a primary signalized entrance connected to a private cul-de-sac and a secondary right-in/right-out access point that will also serve as emergency access.

A traffic impact analysis has been completed, with additional roadway improvements still under discussion between town staff, engineers, and NCDOT officials.

Economic Impact

Developers estimate the project could bring between 150 and 200 jobs once fully built out. Construction is expected to begin in late summer 2026, with full completion projected within five years.

Environmental and Infrastructure Considerations

The site currently includes agricultural land, wooded areas, and a stream along its northern section. Plans call for minimal environmental disruption, with the development avoiding wetlands and protected buffers except for limited access needs.

Because the property falls within a protected watershed area, enhanced stormwater controls will be required. The project proposes four stormwater facilities designed to manage runoff and protect water quality.

Water and sewer services will be provided through Johnston County, and a 5-foot public sidewalk will be installed along the US 70 frontage. Duke Energy will provide electrical service.

Planning and Approval

No residents spoke in opposition during the public hearing.

The council unanimously approved the commercial project with five conditions, including the creation of a property owners association to maintain shared infrastructure, protection of the northern buffer, and formal agreements for stormwater management and shared access.