A new Target is being built as part of the Gold Leaf Crossing Shopping Center in Fuquay-Varina. The Target is set to be finished in spring of 2026, so anticipation is high. Workers started construction on the shopping center in April 2025 which prompted high expectations from the youth of Fuquay-Varina.

Rivera represents the excitement teens have for the new development. Teens are constantly looking for new places to hang out that are convenient to get to. Rivera thinks this is the perfect solution for her and her peers, though some people have concerns about what this means for traffic.

Sophomore Caelyn Guistwite said, “I’m excited but I don’t think we need more infrastructure going up at this time. I think it will increase traffic flow and have negative effects on the environment. I think the new Target will also open up a lot of jobs for the community. However, I am really excited to get one nearby, and I think many people will benefit from it, especially teens.”

Guistwite voiced her concern on how she thinks the Target will affect the community and traffic flow. Complexes like Gold Leaf Crossing hold many different stores which opens up a multitude of job opportunities for locals who are looking for work.

Jobs are also important in areas like Fuquay-Varina with a rapidly growing population rate. Many people are moving into the town which means more teens are coming and looking for places to hang out or get jobs.

Although the development hasn’t finished yet, people can look forward to the change that will offer shopping, jobs and a new hangout spot for teens.