RTP to undergo major transformations, social district proposed

The Research Triangle Park is undergoing major changes with big developments even though the area is mostly known for ground-breaking research.

There are plans for a Marriott Renaissance hotel, lab and office space, restaurants, retail and 1,200 residential units.

Senior Director of Placemaking Amanda Ronan told Durham County commissioners all these factors - along with a social district - can help create a live, work, and play community, with a focus on the outdoors.

“One part that we are really proud of in this project is leaning into that 'P' in the Research Triangle Park and having stormwater, meadow, and 16 acres of green space connecting to already existing trails,” Ronan said. “That's really one of the big drivers that has propelled us to want to apply for this social district because we want people coming to our site to enjoy the amenities."

County Commission Vice Chair Nimasheena Burns believes the changes at RTP are positive for all of Durham.

"I think one of the reasons why I feel so good about it, we are extending our footprint and allowing housing and opportunities and restaurants in different places that we haven't seen before,” Burns said.

Burns said she’s interested in the possibility of a social district, which would allow people to openly drink alcohol in specially marked cups. The proposed social district would span 100 acres around the proposed development called "The Hub."

"I actually think social districts often provide opportunities for entrepreneurs and local businesses to set up pop-up shops,” Burns said.

However, while the Research Triangle Foundation plans for the proposed social district to cover the entire 100 acres, it will only operate in the eastern part of the area to start.

Area leaders are proposing for the RTP' social district to operate from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The proposal would also allow businesses to opt out of the social district.

Durham County Commissioner Wendy Jacobs is also excited about changes at RTP and strongly in favor of the creation of a social district.

"This is what other cities are doing all over the country, and it works really well,” Jacobs said. “It helps support businesses, it's what people want."

Several municipalities throughout the Triangle have social districts, including Raleigh and Durham.