Revive & Thrive: Shaping the Future of Downtown Raleigh

Revive & Thrive: Shaping the Future of Downtown Raleigh
Hosted by: Crank Arm Brewing Company
Description:
Downtown Raleigh, rich in culture and community spirit, has seen a shift in its vibrancy with a decline of 9,000 daily visitors compared to pre-pandemic levels. "Revive & Thrive" offers a platform for constructive dialogue—aimed not at dwelling on challenges but at forging actionable solutions. Join us in a community-driven effort to enhance the connectivity and resilience of Downtown Raleigh.
Schedule:
5:30 PM - 6:15 PM: Meetup at Crank Arm Brewing. Enjoy local flavors with Bulkogi food truck.
6:15 PM: Sip and Stroll through Downtown Raleigh's social district, witnessing the current atmosphere and potential enhancements.

7:00 PM: Moderated Round Table and Community Discussion
Moderator:
Jacob Molz Local Business Leader & Entrepreneur
Panel:
Heather McDougall, PhD Chief Innovation Officer Office of Strategy & Innovation City of Raleigh
Matt Coleman Owner of The Davie and Downtown Raleigh Resident
Pam Blondin Owner DECO Raleigh and Downtown Raleigh Resident
Dr. Jane Harrison Raleigh City Council Member, District D
Bill King CEO Downtown Raleigh Alliance

Discussion Topics:
Business Adaptation: Innovative ways businesses can diversify their offerings.
Event and Attraction Development: Identifying events that could regularly attract visitors.
Public Spaces Enhancement: Strategies for creating engaging and functional public spaces.
Residential and Commercial Integration: Approaches to blend living and business spaces to foster a vibrant community.
Transportation and Accessibility: Improving access and mobility within Downtown Raleigh.
Parking Strategy: A special focus on the current parking charges with mostly empty lots. Proposals for making parking free until the demand necessitates charging, or adopting a model where parking is free except for overnight hours (midnight to 6 AM) to prevent long-term parking without stifling visitor flow.
Desired Outcomes:
Foster a united community effort to revitalize Downtown Raleigh.
Generate actionable strategies for enhancing the area's appeal.
Establish a clear, collaborative vision for the post-pandemic future of Downtown Raleigh.
Additional Notes:
Maintain a forward-looking, solution-oriented discussion tone.
Encourage broad participation, ensuring diverse community representation.
Focus on generating practical solutions and setting clear next steps.