Sims Bark has requested conditional rezoning of 100 acres on Airport Road in Albemarle from M-1 to conditional M-2 to construct a large sawmill and mulch/soil bagging operation, including multiple 12,000 sq ft buildings, 30 acres of product storage, truck facilities, berms, lighting, and internal roads. The Planning Board recommended approval on May 20, 2026 with detailed conditions on setbacks, landscaping, lighting, building sizes, truck parking, and operating hours, and the Board of Commissioners is scheduled to consider CR 26-01 on June 8, 2026.While Sims Bark is the end user, they still must secure watershed and industrial permits from NCDEQ, FAA construction approval due to proximity to the airport, NCDOT driveway and turn-lane improvements, fire protection upgrades, and full site design and construction services. This represents a significant industrial site development project where civil engineers, environmental consultants, traffic engineers, industrial builders, utility contractors, fire protection firms, and permitting specialists can assist Sims Bark and the County in moving from rezoning to design, permitting, and build-out.

Site lies in a Protected Watershed and Airport Overlay District; applicant seeks Special Intensity Allocation to increase allowable built-upon area from 24% to 70%. NCDOT has indicated turn lanes and driveway permits will be required, and the Fire Marshal requires on-site hydrants.