Downtown South development project moved step closer in Raleigh after new filings

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Plans for Raleigh's long-discussed Downtown South development took another step forward after new filings outlined a residential and commercial project on the site, even as plans for a proposed stadium remain unresolved.

The Downtown South project was first proposed in 2019 and was originally envisioned as a mixed-use entertainment district anchored by a 20,000-seat soccer stadium. The development is planned for a 140-acre site near Interstate 40 and South Saunders Street.

The project generated significant public debate following the approval of its rezoning, with discussions centered on public financing and concerns about potential gentrification.

Recent plans filed by Kane Realty call for the construction of eight new buildings on the site. According to the filings, the development would include 1,000 housing units, retail space, office space and a hotel.

The filings represent the first phase of development for Downtown South, moving forward without the proposed stadium that was originally a centerpiece of the project.

The future of the stadium remains uncertain. However, in November, Steve Malik, owner of the North Carolina Courage and North Carolina FC, told ABC11 he was seriously considering a renewed effort to pursue a downtown stadium.

For now, the latest filings signal progress on the broader Downtown South vision, with housing, retail, office and hotel components advancing while the stadium proposal remains in limbo.

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