Hospital adds to hometown feel at Brier Creek

The opening Friday of WakeMed's newest Healthplex is just the latest amenity added to an area that now claims more than one million square feet of commercial space and a lifestyle that has been a hit from the start.

"We look at areas with the most potential in gaining market share," explained Oral Wise, WakeMed director of ambulatory services, of the choice to locate a hospital outpost here. WakeMed's research shows an estimated 3 to 4 percent projected growth in 2012-2013.

"Brier Creek continues to be one of our fastest growing places," said Mitchell Silver, Raleigh planning director.

The Healthplex will serve as a 24-hour emergency room for area residents and offer X-Ray, CT scan and ultrasound testing along with an on-site laboratory.

"We can handle any type of emergency here," Wise said.

Rob Estrella and his family were among the hundreds who toured the new facility Friday. "It is good to know it is close by," he said.

The Estrellas moved to Brier Creek six years ago from Ohio. They chose the area because it is a self-contained community. "This is a great place to be. We just love the area," Estrella said.

"All the amenities are right there," Silver echoed.

And the growth will continue. Two more apartment complexes are planned for even more people to move to Brier Creek.