Located on the eastern edge of Apex, the Center Park neighborhood consists primarily of homes along Center Park Way, which is situated to the north of Center Street. Center Park is a small subdivision with a population of less than 15 and is bordered by Keith Street to the west, Center Street to the south, Old Raleigh Road to the north, and Apex Peak Way to the east.
A western suburb of Raleigh, Apex was established in 1873 and has a population of approximately 35,000. Neighboring cities include Cary to the north and northeast, and Holly Springs to the south. Although treasured for its small-town character, Apex is best-known for its close proximity to Research Triangle Park and was ranked number 44 on CNN Money Magazine’s list of the best places to live in 2009.
The Center Park neighborhood is a short drive from Interstate 40 and Interstate 540, providing convenient access for commuters to downtown Raleigh. Hemlock Bluffs State Natural Area in nearby Cary is less than five miles to the east and offers nearly three miles of trails, a variety of hemlock trees, scenic observation platforms, bird watching opportunities, and the Stevens Nature Center, which features the Nature’s Niche gift shop, an educational classroom, native wildflower garden, hands-on exhibit, and a variety of nature programs. The North Carolina Academy for Performing Arts is a half-mile down Center Street to the west and offers a host of dance classes for all ages.
Because the Center Park neighborhood is situated on a court, there is no need for sidewalks in this part of the city. Shopping, salon services, eateries and the Apex Chamber of Commerce are less than a mile away, as is a Food Lion supermarket and the Apex Police Department.