Motel comes down
By Turner Walston
Published in News on October 14, 2005 1:59 PM
A Goldsboro landmark is being torn down, and speculation has already begun about what type of business might take its place.
The Wayne Motel on U.S. Highway 70 is being demolished to make way for development. The motel and the nearly 5 acres it sits on were purchased by Best Commer-cial Development.
"We purchased it for development purposes due to its proximity to the new Highway 117 bypass," co-owner Jay Best said today. "It's just a good location."
The property, located on the northeast side of the new intersection, is currently zoned for general business. That designation allows for several types of commercial operations, including restaurants, retail stores, motels and car washes.
The motel was built in 1956, according to county tax records. A thriving restaurant once operated adjacent to the motel.
Best said the existing structures are being torn down, and the lot is being cleared for a new business. He would not say what types of businesses are being considered.
According to the city inspection department, a demolition permit was obtained on Tuesday. No further permits have been issued, officials said.
"It's like any other highway project," Best said.
He said developers often look for lots near intersections for new development. The motel's location would be highly visible for clients such as gas stations or restaurants, Best said.
"That area is going to be a major interchange between the existing Highway 70 and the new Highway 117, so that should generate quite a bit of traffic for whatever type of use would want to be there," he said.