Our Greatest Asset

August 14, 2025 | Written by: Campbell Wheby

Large and small playground structures in a green field.

“Why Sanford? What is it about Sanford?” I hear this question often at events in other counties, from first-time visitors to Lee County, and from curious outsiders who keep seeing Sanford’s name pop up more frequently in their daily lives.

At Sanford Area Growth Alliance, we work to attract businesses and industries to Lee County—creating more jobs, higher wages, and a stronger local economy. This growth naturally draws people here to work, but we want people to settle down here, too. Becoming part of the fabric of our community is what will enhance the quality of place in Lee County.

 

Quality of place is what makes a community truly desirable for residents, businesses, and visitors. For Sanford, that means being aesthetically appealing, offering social amenities, fostering economic opportunities, and building a deep sense of belonging in a community that feels safe.

 

Bringing these elements together to create a vibrant, welcoming environment is at the heart of our mission. Every program, event, and decision we make is designed to strengthen our community and serve our members, investors, and residents. SAGA’s partners work towards these goals alongside us.

 

Lee County Government is nearing the grand opening of our new Athletic Park, which will feature green space for outdoor sports, recreation, and family fun. Construction is also underway on our new library, designed to offer more opportunities for learning and creativity while also providing a permanent meeting space for our Lee County Commissioners.

 

Meanwhile, the City of Sanford is preparing to open the Agricultural Marketplace by next spring—a new home for our Farmers Market, a hub for nutrition education and community health, and the gateway to the future Sanford Central Green. Together, these projects and many others led by Lee County Government and the City of Sanford are continuing to build a community we can all be proud of. Be sure to follow them on social media to stay updated.

 

Our goal is simple: to make you proud to call Sanford home. We want you to experience our events, enjoy our amenities, live in our neighborhoods, work in our industries, and play in our parks.

 

When you live, work, and play here, you help share the story of Sanford—whether it is with a coworker who commutes, a friend from out of town, or a family member considering a move. Your voice is the spirit of our community!

 

When I am asked “Why Sanford?” my answer is always our residents. You are our greatest contribution to quality of place. You are our biggest asset and our loudest cheerleaders.

 

Susan Gomez

Chamber of Commerce Director

sgomez@growsanfordnc.com