Many people assume Cumberland County will land many of the new homeowners and businesses. It's closest to the Army post, and is the most developed county surrounding it. Also, the outer loop is taking shape.
However, other counties are promoting themselves as places for personnel to live. Harnett, Moore, Hoke, and Robeson counties are positioning themselves for their piece of the action, and Cumberland County knows it.
"Fayetteville and Cumberland County have got their swagger on, and we're not taking anything for granted. We're on our toes," said Todd Smith, of the Cumberland County Business Council.
Harnett County has room for growth north of Fort Bragg. That part of the county even has its own Chamber of Commerce now for attracting industry.
Moore County has its share of retired generals and current military. They're spreading the word -- move to Pinehurst, not Fayetteville. It must be working, because real-estate agents said they're flooded with calls from soldiers coming to town.
"It's an easy sell, because it's just a wonderful quality of life on a day-to-day basis," said real-estate agent Peggy Sarvis.
Hoke County has land cheap, and it has a unique angle. More and more, it's billing itself as a horse community. Even Robeson County, which doesn't border Fort Bragg, has its eyes on bringing military and their spending power to town.
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