The city council recently received updates on several major construction projects that are underway. These developments aim to enhance public infrastructure and improve community services.
The New City Hall project has reached the eighth floor, with the building’s public areas beginning to take shape. Substantial completion is expected by December 2026, and final completion is anticipated by March 2027.
For the Convention Center and Red Hat Amphitheater, design work for the amphitheater is nearing completion. Utility work continues under South Street, and construction fencing will be installed this week. The amphitheater is expected to open in the 2027 season, followed by the Convention Center’s construction. The schematic design remains on budget as it moves into the design/development phase, with an anticipated opening in 2029.
Fire Station 1 is relocating from Dawson Street to a new site at Salisbury Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard. This facility will also house Fire Administration offices and backup 9-1-1 facilities. A Construction Manager-at-Risk has been appointed for this project.
The Chavis-Dix Strollway aims to connect Chavis and Dix parks while integrating historical elements of the corridor. The first phase honors the Fourth Ward, with concept designs already in place. A consultant team has been selected, and negotiations are ongoing.
Heritage Park Redevelopment is a partnership effort with the Raleigh Housing Authority focused on affordable housing. The first phase includes plans for 51 senior units and 120 family units, with tenant relocation set for July and demolition starting this fall. The entire five-phase project aspires to house over 1,000 residents.
The Southern Gateway Interchange proposes changes to improve safety and pedestrian access at Dawson Street/McDowell Street/Western Boulevard interchange. It aims to support future Bus Rapid Transit stations but remains a conceptual plan at this stage.
In transportation safety efforts, Phase 2 of downtown safety improvements is progressing in collaboration with the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Pedestrian safety enhancements continue as reports for both the Downtown Mobility Study and Active Mobility Plan are expected this fall. Additionally, sidewalk improvements have been approved following resident budget recommendations for FY25.
