The Collier Companies, a developer based out of Gainesville, Florida, just closed on a 10-acre parcel along the Cape Fear River, at the intersection of River Road and Sandlewood Way, near the Riverlights community. The proposed development will include 292 units featuring one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans.

According to a deed, the company paid nearly $6.2 million for the property.

Construction on the development is expected to begin in early 2027, and The Collier Companies is partnering with Wilmington-based engineering firm McKim & Creed, Atlanta-based architecture firm Dynamik Design and Wilmington-based Mihaly Land Design for landscape architecture. 

The development will include a pool, a bocce ball court and pickleball courts, as well as a clubhouse with community spaces and a fitness center. 

“This project represents our continued commitment to creating exceptional living experiences in vibrant, growing markets,” said Michael Rosenblatt, president of operations at The Collier Companies, in a press release. “Wilmington’s unique charm and riverfront setting make this an ideal location for our next community.”

The Collier Companies has an extensive presence in Gainesville and throughout northern and western Florida. This development is the company’s first project in North Carolina. 

“The Collier Companies continues its 2X journey to double in size in the coming decade with exciting developments in progress,” said the press release. According to the release, the development “marks another step forward in (The Collier Companies) Journey to 2x growth initiative.” 

The Collier Companies' growth plan includes the completion of about 5,300 apartments. According to the press release, more than 2,200 of those apartments have already been completed, 1,500 are currently under construction and about 1,200 are in development.