RTP unveils vision for housing, retail and growth in next chapter of development

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Research Triangle Park is entering a new chapter, one that business and community leaders say will help the region remain competitive as it continues to grow.

At Hub RTP, Nanny Goat Market manager Aria Bender has watched that transformation unfold firsthand. Bender, who lives in Durham and works in RTP, said she is encouraged by efforts to create a more diverse and inclusive community.

"People are really starting to enjoy this area," Bender said. "There's an Indian-owned business. There's a Black-owned business. There's really an emphasis on making it diverse and inclusive."

Bender said RTP needs more mixed-use spaces where people can dine, grab coffee, shop and access everyday services.

"People can go for restaurants. People can go to eat. People can go to get coffee. People can go find a grocery store," she said.

Business leaders say that vision is already taking shape as RTP moves forward with plans to reimagine its 7,000-acre campus.

"Our region continues to evolve," said Gina Anderson of the RTP Owners & Tenants Association. "It continues to be one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. I think this really helps position the park to be an attractive place for businesses to come and for people to live, work and play."

For decades, RTP has served as one of North Carolina's leading economic engines. Leaders say the next phase of development is focused on ensuring it remains that way, beginning with projects like Horseshoe at Hub RTP.

"We have retail. We have people moving into the offices. We have people living in RTP," said Scott Levitan of the Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina. "These 440 units are the first people to live in RTP in 65 years. So this was the beta test."

The transformation has been years in the making and required rezoning approvals from both Durham and Wake counties. Leaders said the plan also received unanimous support from roughly 400 companies, reflecting broad enthusiasm for RTP's future.

Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam said the growth strategy should include educational opportunities that connect young people with the region's major employers.

"We constantly highlight and uplift the fact that we have NC State, UNC, Duke, Durham Tech, all these amazing schools," Allam said. "We need pre-K through 12 so our young people can be educated around these amazing companies that are creating jobs for them."

With about 55,000 people traveling to RTP each day, leaders said the focus is on smart growth, including additional housing, retail and community spaces designed to strengthen the region's competitiveness.

"I would definitely like to see more of these pop up around RTP," Bender said.

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