Raleigh seeks development ideas near Moore Square

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- The future of Moore Square is drawing attention as the City of Raleigh looks for new development near the downtown park, including affordable housing, commercial space and outdoor dining.

City leaders are seeking proposals from developers for areas east and south of Moore Square. The goal, according to a city statement, is to spur development that "brings activity and energy to Moore Square, City Market, and the east side of downtown."

The city says multifamily housing or hospitality uses are expected to be the primary components of any project on the sites.

Moore Square was busy Friday, with neighbors walking through the park and sharing mixed reactions about the possibility of redevelopment nearby. Some residents said they welcome changes, while others expressed concern about potential overcrowding.

"I love it. They have so many different things going on every day. I never know what to expect when I walk down here," said Geraldine Lewis, a Raleigh resident.

Others said they are open to new ideas if they build on what already exists around the park.

"It sounds like there's already a lot going on, but it'd be cool if they could enhance everything," said Cary Welborn of Raleigh.

The city has outlined specific priorities for the project, including multifamily and affordable housing, along with commercial space and outdoor dining options.

"I feel it's wonderful. We need it. We need it in this area. To bring people in," Lewis said.

Lewis also pointed to rising housing costs and the potential benefits of affordability tied to new development.

"It's getting a lot more expensive. So, the affordable housing for people to be able to live and move to affordable housing. And it will be nice, not rundown or stuff like that," she said.

Not all residents are convinced the changes would be entirely positive. Some said more development could make an already active area feel crowded.

"I'm just really not sure if that would be a good thing or a bad thing, but I'm open to more people coming downtown," Welborn said.

Any redevelopment is still months away. Proposals are due in mid-May, after which the city will review submissions and decide which, if any, to move forward with near Moore Square.