Winston-Salem and Forsyth County leaders are hoping you will do your part to help shape the future. Outreach is underway for the Forward 2045 comprehensive plan. Once adopted, it will serve as the official guide for growth in the city of Winston-Salem and Forsyth County.

Why this is happening now

Forward 2045 will replace Legacy 2030, the current comprehensive plan that was adopted a decade ago. State law requires municipalities in North Carolina to have a plan that is maintained in order to continue applying zoning codes. The plan, while nationally recognized, is in need of updates.

How to get involved

Here's where you come in. Nine public meetings are scheduled around the county during the month of October to collect input. You'll be asked what's most important to you, and what you consider to be strengths and weaknesses where you live. Participants can provide input on these categories and concepts:

Amenities + entertainment options
Housing and neighborhoods
Community appearance
Economic development
Land preservation
Sustainability
Accessibility
Equity

The meetings are where you can share your specific feedback with planning staff. They have been collecting feedback from the community and from board and committee members for the past year.

Mayors are encouraging residents to attend these sessions in addition to filling out an online survey. It takes five to 10 minutes to complete and is available in English and Spanish. It will close after Oct. 31.

What happens next

Input collected will be used to draft policies and recommendations. City and county leaders will hold public hearings and anticipate voting to adopt Forward 2045 in the fall of 2024. The City-County Planning Board, Winston-Salem City Council, and Forsyth County Commissioners will use it when making decisions on new development, infrastructure investments, and other expenditures.