Imagine receiving a letter that turns your world upside down, telling you that the home you've known for decades will soon be gone. That's the harsh reality facing over 100 families in Cary's Chatham Estates mobile home park, as the property is slated for redevelopment. These residents, many of whom are elderly or on fixed incomes, are now scrambling to find new housing in a market that's already tough to navigate.
Posted: January 2, 2026, 2:50:50 AM
Updated: January 2, 2026, 4:24:44 AM
Families in Cary Mobile Home Park Given Until June to Vacate
By Kirstyn Clark, WRAL Reporter
Steve and Ann Curlee, a Cary couple who have called Chatham Estates home since 1988, are among those grappling with this sudden displacement. On a recent Monday, residents received the devastating news: they have just six months to leave, casting a long shadow of uncertainty over their futures. The mobile home community, nestled off Maynard Road, has been a quiet haven for decades.
"It's a lot of unanswered questions," Ann Curlee expressed, her voice heavy with worry. The thought of leaving, of uprooting their lives, is almost unbearable. "Not knowing where we'll be going and whether we're going to fit into it or not," she added, capturing the shared anxiety of her neighbors.
The letter from owner Curtis Westbrook informed the 143 households that a buyer intends to close on the property in mid-2026, with plans to redevelop the land. According to an information brief from the Town of Cary, the proposed project involves constructing 330 multifamily units and 97 townhouses. But here's where it gets controversial... many Chatham Estates residents fear they simply won't be able to afford these new housing options.
The Curlees are hoping to secure a spot in a nearby senior living community. However, if that falls through, they may be forced to relocate to Johnston County, a move that raises serious concerns, particularly for Ann's health. "I need to stay around where I have my doctor or have an ambulance get to me as fast as I can," she explained, highlighting the critical importance of remaining close to her healthcare providers. This situation underscores a broader issue: the impact of displacement on vulnerable populations and their access to essential services.
Westbrook cited "age and health" as factors in his decision to sell the property. "I hope he gets along as good as he can, and I don't blame him, but I hate to have to move," Ann Curlee said, displaying a mixture of understanding and resignation. It's a poignant reminder that even in business decisions, there are often deeply personal consequences.
Fortunately, Cary-based non-profit NeighborUp is stepping in to provide assistance. They are working to connect residents with alternative housing options, resources, and financial aid to cover moving expenses. The deadline for removing all mobile homes and personal property is Tuesday, June 30. This tight timeline adds immense pressure to an already stressful situation. And this is the part most people miss: The actual logistics of moving a mobile home are incredibly complex and expensive, often requiring specialized equipment and permits.
Here's the question that sparks debate: Is it ethical to displace long-term residents, particularly those who are vulnerable, for the sake of development? While redevelopment can bring economic benefits and new housing options, it often comes at a cost to existing communities. Some might argue that property owners have the right to sell their land, while others believe there's a moral obligation to protect vulnerable residents from displacement. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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