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The Civic Projects and Places unit leads the design and implementation of public realm-related capital improvement projects, leveraging expertise in urban design, data analysis,
The Civic Projects and Places team helps bring Raleigh’s public spaces, like parks and plazas, to sidewalks and gathering spots to life. Their job is to make sure these places are functional, beautiful, welcoming, and reflective of Raleigh’s unique character.
They plan and build projects that improve everyday life by using design, data, and teamwork across city departments. This team plans ahead, designs ideas, and listens to the community to make each project meaningful and welcoming.
Bringing Raleigh’s Public Spaces to Life
The Civic Projects and Places team turns ideas into real places. They work behind the scenes to plan, fund, and guide projects that improve everyday life. From sidewalks and plazas to bike paths and gathering spaces, they make Raleigh more connected, beautiful, and livable.
Managing Projects from Start to Finish: This team helps get civic projects off the ground. They create early designs and planning budgets, then work with other city departments to keep everything moving through construction. Their goal? Make sure each project delivers something meaningful to the community.
Planning for Smart Investments: The Civic Projects and Places team helps decide which projects should be prioritized in the city’s budget. They consider fairness, environmental responsibility, and how well projects support Raleigh’s future plans. They also find creative ways to fund these efforts, so great ideas don’t get stuck on paper.
Creating New Civic Spaces: The “New Civic Places” program focuses on small but powerful improvements. This includes plazas, sidewalks, ramps, and public art that make neighborhoods feel more connected and welcoming. Projects like the City Plaza upgrades and the art wrap at One Exchange Plaza are just the beginning.
Improving Streetscapes: The team helps guide streetscape plans through the approval process. They also offer advice to make sure new designs fit the character of Raleigh’s neighborhoods.
Connecting the City: They work with transportation experts to improve how people move around Raleigh. They’re helping build a city that’s easier to navigate and more inclusive for everyone.
Supported Projects
South Park Heritage Trail
The South Park Heritage Trail is a two-mile cultural path in South Park–East Raleigh. The trail features history, public art, signage, and improved streetscapes. Designed by the Civic Places team, it’s now moving into construction.
Commerce Place Streetscape – Tactical Phase
The Commerce Place project is turning a block-long alley into a more welcoming space for people—not just cars. The alley is being reimagined to be pedestrian-friendly with outdoor dining, public art, and greenery. The first round of quick, low-cost improvements is now complete, setting the stage for long-term upgrades.
Active Projects Supported
City Plaza Improvements
City Plaza on Fayetteville Street is getting a refresh to make it more fun and inviting. New shade, seating, and greenery have been installed. Pop-up features like pickleball and mini golf have also been added. The project is almost finished.
Fayetteville Street Streetscape Plan
The Fayetteville Street Streetscape Plan is updating the street landscaping, lighting, public art, and sidewalks. The goal is to make the street more walkable, event-friendly, and supportive of local businesses. Work is currently in progress.
Strollway: Fourth Ward
The Strollway: Fourth Ward is a walkable path designed to celebrate the history and culture of Raleigh’s Fourth Ward. Along the route, you’ll find art, signs, and small gathering spots. The project runs through the southwest part of downtown, mainly along West South Street and South Saunders Street.
To bring this vision to life, the project will include a design phase and community input. As of August 2025, it's underway and moving into contract talks with a consultant team to lead both efforts.