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Building a Downtown for All A Place to Live, Work, Play, and Thrive

In Downtown Raleigh – North Carolina’s capital city – business, government, and culture converge. A dynamic food scene. Lively entertainment. Countless opportunities to live, work, and thrive.   

Raleigh's downtown skyline with fall trees visible

Raleigh's downtown is its economic engine. It drives business growth, tax revenue and job creation. The heartbeat of downtown keeps the entire city moving forward. It's a place that fuels prosperity and defines Raleigh's identity.  

 

That vitality is growing. The work we do now will shape Raleigh for years to come. The City's major projects in our central business district - and ongoing private projects - will fuel investment, attract businesses, and create prosperity downtown and beyond. See how we're making Raleigh North Carolina's downtown. 

Investing in a Vibrant Community 


A vibrant downtown doesn’t happen by chance - it’s built through thoughtful planning and sustained investment. Strategic investments in public spaces, infrastructure, and facilities such as the Convention Center and Red Hat Amphitheater not only enhance the daily experience for residents and visitors but also lay the groundwork for long-term economic growth. When a city prioritizes its downtown, it signals a commitment to its future. These efforts attract new businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create welcoming environments where people want to spend time, connect, and invest.  

Connecting People with Places

We’re committed to making downtown easy to navigate for everyone - whether you're walking, biking, riding transit, or driving. Accessible transportation connects people to jobs, shops, and experiences, while reducing traffic and supporting local businesses. These investments help ensure people of all abilities can move freely and confidently throughout our downtown. 

Keeping Our Downtown Clean and Safe

When downtown feels clean and safe, people notice - and they come back. Whether you're meeting friends for coffee, taking your kids to a park, or walking to work, a well-maintained downtown creates a sense of comfort and pride. Clean sidewalks, good lighting, and visible safety efforts show that the City cares about its people and its future. These everyday details make a big difference in how we experience our community—and in how others see it, too.  

A City of Raleigh employee powerwashing a sidewalk

Team Downtown Clean-up Crew

Shaping a Lively Downtown

A lively cityscape is a vibrant, energetic visual and sensory experience of a city that feels full of life and activity. It’s more than just buildings - it’s the dynamic atmosphere created by people, movement, lights, sounds, and culture. 

a person walking around a corner with large dandelion sculputures coming out of the sidewalk

Wayfinding Artist-in-Residence: Example Image "Dandelions" by artist Carin Mincemoyer

Cultivating Experiences

We hope everyone who visits Downtown Raleigh feels the vibrant energy and unique spirit that make our city so special. Whether you're a street vendor or performer, or simply someone who enjoys festivals and parades, the City offers countless opportunities to create unforgettable experiences.