David Diaz of the Downtown Raleigh Alliance says having the new signature building topped off says a lot about the city. "I really hope the race is on in downtown, I hope to see more buildings that are taller than this one. I think our market can really support it," Diaz added, "Having a prominent skyline is very important to the downtown and the image of the Triangle, to show off the facr that we've got a strong urban center that's growing."
Downtown boosters hope the new spire will be a beacon - attracting more new businesses and people interested in exploring Raleigh.
It's already inspiring plans for one return visit from Rhonda Quattlebaum. "My husband and I need to take an afternoon, a day, and spend it in downtown Raleigh!"
According to RaleighSkyline.com the 30-story, 530-foot tall tower along Martin and Fayetteville Street will be the tallest building in downtown Raleigh.
The tower is scheduled for completion in 2008 at a cost of $100 million. The top 11 floors will include 150 residential condominiums. At street level, a branch bank and 17,700 square feet of retail space.
