The City didn’t rezone these areas the proper way. Instead, they used a procedural sleight-of- hand, labeling it a “text change” to the Unified Development Ordinance. This way, they bypassed the normal legal requirements—like directly notifying affected residents via mail and holding a proper legislative hearing. You probably didn’t hear about this change. That’s not a coincidence. Only five people spoke at the public hearing. In a city of nearly half a million residents, that’s not engagement. That’s evasion.
City Council Meetings May 13, 2025
HIGHLIGHTS Shared results of Social City Assessment study and Traffic and Safety Study in Glenwood South. The Social City Assessment consultant seemed to be biased toward businesses rather than residents. These issues will be discussed further in May 27 meeting of...
West St Tower Violates Raleigh Downtown Plan
The Downtown Plan specifically notes the recommendation that the North End of downtown would have less large-scale development in contrast to the large-scale redevelopment contemplated on the South End of downtown, the vision for the North End fills the gaps between existing assets to create a complete neighborhood. Furthermore, the plan shows appropriate residential development for the West Street site at 7 and 8 stories.
West St Tower Violates Equitable Transit Development
Key Strategies of Equitable Transit Oriented Development allow for relatively higher densities in mixed-use areas near BRT stations. The density and building height of new developments should respect the existing neighborhood contexts. Transition building height and bulk downward from the station to connect with adjacent, lower density districts and neighborhoods.
May 6, 2025 City Council Meetings
Highlights from the May 6 Council meetings
West St Tower Proposal Violates the Comprehensive Plan
The tower proposal violates 4 city plans, 47 city policies and 2 city tables. One ex. is Policy LU 8.3 Conserving, Enhancing, and Revitalizing Neighborhoods: Recognize the importance of balancing the need to increase the housing supply and expand neighborhood commerce with the parallel need to protect neighborhood character, preserve historic resources, and restore the environment.
Peace/West St Neighborhood meeting – All Stand!
This rezoning would set a dangerous precedent that would affect ALL neighborhoods. It violates height guidance, 4 plans, 47 policies, and 2 tables. There is not one single city policy or plan that supports more than 12 stories at this location.
Who Does it Serve?
If the goal of the city is to include more mixed-income, mixed-use housing in growth centers and especially on transit corridors, accepting money in lieu of actual affordable units, will NOT accomplish that. We need to have mixed-income near services and transit.
Raleigh Deserves Better
New developments on public property are the easiest opportunities to build this badly needed affordable housing, because it’s our land. And, we can choose what to do with it!
April 7 & 8 City Council Meetings
Highlights from the 4/7 Budget Work Session and the 4/8 Afternoon Work Session and Evening Public Comment Session