ASHEBORO, N.C. -- The Mill 133 project in downtown Asheboro opened its doors to the community for the first time this weekend for a community fundraiser.

Reconstruction and development of the mill off Church Street is still in the early stages, but when it's complete it'll be a mixed-use space for retail, dining and a small hotel.

Developers say this will a destination location for the community. “We feel like this is a seed that we are planting in this community. When you plant a seed, there is expectation of growth, beauty and jobs,” says Dustie Gregson, a partners of the project.

Another partner, Jerry Neal, says, “We are enthusiastic about supporting and enhancing this community. We think that Asheboro is extremely unique.” Both Gregson and Neal are entrepreneurs who own buildings next to the property. They're finishing up major structural repairs now and plan to start phase two soon, the redevelopment of the second floor.