After months of anticipation, McDonald’s has officially opened its doors in Pike Road, marking an exciting step forward for the town’s continued growth.
The new restaurant, located near the corner of Vaughn and Pike roads, opened to eager customers who lined up early for a chance to be among the first 50 guests to receive a special gift box. Operated by Murphy Family Restaurants, this new location represents the company’s first ground-up McDonald’s build in 15 years, a milestone both for the franchise and the Pike Road community.
“This is history in the making for folks here in Pike Road,” said Eddie Byrd, Director of Marketing for Murphy Family Restaurants. “We’re thrilled to bring this to a community that continues to grow and thrive.”
Community members were equally excited about the opening, noting that it reflects Pike Road’s family-centered growth and development. “Children are the future, and kids need safe places to go,” shared first customer Beverly Addison. “This is growth. Let’s grow!”
The Merry Corners Development
McDonald’s is just the beginning for this new shopping center, known as Merry Corners, located off Vaughn Road across from The Shops at Pike Road (Publix) and the Pike Road Town Hall & Shops.
Developed by The Trotman Company and designed by JMR+H Architecture, Merry Corners is planned as a vibrant 41,000-square-foot mixed-use center. Once completed, the development will feature:
- Five outparcels are already under contract to River Bank & Trust, Baptist Health, and other local businesses.
- A shopping plaza with 10–14 retail spaces for dining, shopping, and services.
- Second-story office and event space available for lease.
- Infrastructure improvements to the Vaughn and Pike Road intersection to support the area’s growing traffic and accessibility.
As one of Pike Road’s newest retail destinations, Merry Corners will bring fresh options for residents, visitors.
A Bright Future for Pike Road
With the opening of McDonald’s and the continued progress at Merry Corners, Pike Road’s commercial landscape is expanding in exciting ways. The addition of new restaurants, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and local offices enhances the town’s convenience while preserving its close-knit, small-town feel.
From new neighborhoods to growing shopping destinations, Pike Road continues to strike the perfect balance between progress and community, making it an exceptional place to live, work, and invest.