The third-largest town in Wake County, Garner has experienced rapid growth in recent years, nearly doubling in population since 1990, with more than 25,000 residents. It is now home to major shopping centers and an industrial center. Located just south of Raleigh, it is a blend of the old railroad depot historic district and new residential growth. Garner celebrated its centennial in 2005.

What are the local attractions?

The Garner Historic Auditorium is the place to take in a show or a pageant. The renovated auditorium, a part of the former Garner Elementary School, is now a venue for dance, music and theater performances. If you want to see local high school football at its best, check out the Friday night lights at Garner High School, where the Trojans play. White Oak Crossing on U.S. 70 is one of the newest "power" centers in the Triangle, with a wide variety of retail and restaurants. The Toot-N-Tell Family Restaurant is a local landmark. And you can fish and picnic at Lake Benson Park.

What's the history?

Garner was settled about 1800 and incorporated in 1883 as Garner's Station, which was named for founder, H.C. Garner. What is now Garner began as the location of a station on the North Carolina railroad between Goldsboro and Charlotte. The town was re-incorporated in 1905 as Garner. (Sources: North Carolina Gazetteer, by William S. Powell and town of Garner). You can learn more about Garner's history here.

Who runs the town?

Garner has a council-manager form of government. The Town Manager runs the town and executes policy set by the Mayor and a five-member Board of Aldermen. The town's operating budget for 2007 was based on more than $18 million in revenue, which included more than $10 million from property taxes. The town provides weekly curbside trash collection. It also has biweekly recycling collection as well as a drop-off recycling program. Water and Sewer Services are provided through the city of Raleigh.

Who lives here?

The median age in Garner was 35.8 as of the 2000 census. The racial breakdown was 67 percent white, 27.1 percent black, and 1.1 percent Asian. Hispanics or Latinos of any race make up 4.7 percent of the population. Bachelors degrees or higher are held by 28.2 percent of the population over 25.

 

What about public safety?

Police services are provided by the Garner Police Department. Here are the crime statistics for 2006 (source: SBI):

Murder: 0

Rape: 9

Robbery: 26

Aggravated Assault: 38

Burglary: 220

Larcenies: 906

Motor Vehicle Theft: 43

You can go here to look up online accident reports.