08/27/2026
Great afternoon yesterday at the State of Downtown Raleigh event by Downtown Raleigh ☀️
DRA recapped Raleigh over the years, featuring the efforts in community revival, energy and investment that helped downtown grow and thrive. 💫
However, since the pandemic our downtown has not seemed to fully recover. The conversation feels more about what’s next and how we keep moving forward ❤️
I really appreciated that DRA didn’t shy away from the challenges downtown is facing, especially around Moore Square. They addressed them directly and called on local businesses, leaders and the community to be part of the solutions.
We also got to hear directly from some of the people and companies investing in the future of Downtown Raleigh.
🔷 Cooper Tacia, a local contractor (who builds schools, restaurants, industrial + more) shared their commitment to giving back to downtown, not just by headquartering there, but by giving resources and volunteering time.
🔷 Heritage Park by the Raleigh Housing Authority is taking a new approach to development with a big focus on affordable housing, while honoring the history of Raleigh’s Fourth Ward.
🔷 White Lodging purchased the Sheraton and is working to transform the Sheraton Raleigh into a Westin. Along with the Omni and other projects, there’s a lot of potential with hospitality downtown.
🔷 One Nash Square is a new premium condo community that will be built overlooking Nash Square, bringing another option for buyers who want a luxury, accessible and walkable downtown lifestyle.
Definitely the wildest and coolest ideaI heard yesterday was about the proposed Oakline pedestrian bridge and tree-lined walkway connecting Dorothea Dix and downtown…wow that would truly be amazing 🌳
There’s a lot happening in Downtown Raleigh and we also a lot of work to do. I’m so excited to live here and be a part of it! ✨
