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10/30/2025 1:55 pm

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Sociable City Assessment

A Study on Downtown Raleigh's Social Economy

Updated: Oct 30, 2025

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Process Report Updates

Approved

On Oct. 21, 2025, City Council amended the noise ordinance to implement decibel-level limits based on the day of the week, time of day, and location in the City.

Helpful Links

The City contracted with Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI) to conduct an assessment of the nighttime social economy in key areas of downtown. The assessment includes strengths, challenges and opportunities of Glenwood South and Fayetteville Street District.

Process

Nearly 100 participants were engaged throughout on-site visits from the RHI consultants. 

  • Phase 1: Engagement
    • Went on day and nighttime walking tours of districts
    • Met with project steering group and other key stakeholders
  • Phase 2: Evaluation
    • Held listening sessions on Planning, Safety and Vibrancy with community members
  • Phase 3: Strategy Development
    • Held roundtable discussions to problem solve for challenges identified in listening sessions
  • Phase 4: Action Presentations
    • Finalized report and presented to City Council and community 

Report

Read the Sociable City Assessment.

RHI consultants presented the report to City Council during the May 13, 2025 afternoon work session.

Updates

  • May 2025: The report is a pending item for the Safe, Vibrant and Healthy Community Committee
  • September 2025: City staff is revisiting the Noise Ordinance as it relates to commercial sound

 

Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI)

For more details about the project and available resources, visit the Responsible Hospitality Institute Raleigh webpage.

Helpful Links

Contact

 

Office of Special Events

Hospitality and Nightlife

919-996-2200

hospitality.programs@raleighnc.gov

 

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Department:
Special Events
Service Categories:
Hospitality Programs

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