The North Carolina Department of Commerce has announced an extension for public comments on the state’s Opportunity Zone nomination process. This allows local governments, economic development organizations, and the public extra time to submit their feedback on eligible census tracts. The new deadline for nomination submissions is set for 11:59 pm on Sunday, June 21, 2026. This extension aims to enhance local community involvement in identifying areas most suited for economic development and investment.
The Opportunity Zone nomination process is designed to be locally driven, as emphasized by N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. Local leaders and community members are considered key players in identifying census tracts that can benefit from investment and development. The extension provides an additional two weeks for more comprehensive input from these stakeholders, focusing on areas that could benefit from housing, job creation, and economic opportunities.
North Carolina can nominate up to 202 of the 807 eligible low-income census tracts for federal Opportunity Zone designation. These zones are eligible for federal tax incentives to attract long-term private investment. Public feedback is integral to aligning these nominations with both state and local priorities, including fostering business growth and community resilience.
The decision to extend the comment period follows Governor Josh Stein’s Executive Order No. 36, which emphasizes increasing housing opportunities throughout North Carolina. The order instructs the Commerce Department to prioritize housing in the nomination process, a stance reflected in the public feedback form. The updated web page on the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s website provides more details, including a map of eligible tracts and a downloadable feedback form.
The U.S. Treasury is expected to certify the nominated Opportunity Zones later this year, with the designations becoming effective on January 1, 2027.
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