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Raleighties make plans to nudge DTR in the right direction.
It’s clear Downtown Raleigh is changing—whether you think it’s for the better or worse—and Raleighites are rolling up their sleeves to ensure NC’s crown jewel is moving in the right direction. To wit, city leaders and a swath of small business owners and residents met at Crank Arm Brewing’s recent Revive & Thrive public panel to workshop plans to up the area’s allure for businesses and patrons alike.
Out the gate, parking is a major deterrent for would-be Downtowners—but attendees were astounded to find there are already some 7,000 free evening and weekend parking spots in DTR (see “Parking Problems”). Though much more can be done to improve parking access, including a consideration for the first two hours free.
Beyond parking, viability and safety concerns were also assuaged. Despite rumblings that DTR is losing its cool factor, 1.5 million unique patrons frequented and 14 new businesses bowed last year alone, with many more in progress—not to mention the 4,500 new residents expected to move into the 3,000 units hitting the market in the next year. Moreover, after a last-summer surge, major crimes are down by 22% in DTR and 50% in Moore Square—and trending further downward. Still, many residents and business owners are hoping for better reinforcements than statistics when looking to the future.
“I’ve seen a focus on Downtown since last year—because we did see trend lines going in the wrong direction, and now with that focus, trends are going in the right direction,” said Councilwoman Dr. Jane Harrison during the panel discussion. Here, the city’s top talking points for reviving Downtown.
- Continuing to promote safety: Crime rates may be down, but the job is far from done. “In terms of public safety, we have to have holistic solutions for people in need,” said Harrison. “We are putting together an alternative crisis response unit for folks struggling with homelessness, substance abuse. … We have a duty to help them.”
- Accessible transportation: According to Harrison, DTR doesn’t necessarily need more activities or festivals, but better ways to get to them. “I want to be able to get where I want to go easily and safely, and how we get around here is still a quagmire,” she maintained. “I am making a choice between Cary, Durham and Downtown, and how [I] get there motivates my choice.” City Council is also currently deciding if parking in city decks will be free for the first two hours on weekdays.
- Spotlight culture and entrepreneurship: Upgrading spaces with public art, shedding light on local musicians and performers, and circumventing barriers for first-time business owners emphasize diversified offerings. More murals, a block party and even a residency for international musicians was thrown in the ring.
- Public realm maintenance: “If the experience is poor, people will respond by not coming back,” emphasized Downtown Raleigh Alliance CEO and President Bill King. Public spaces—from trash cans and playgrounds to shade structures and plazas—could be more inviting and better maintained.
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