The DLA’s mission is to work with residents and city government to promote responsible, sustainable growth downtown and in nearby neighborhoods like Cameron Village.  So many among us have watched and weighed the issues associated with the development of high density housing like Crescent Apartments and 401 Oberlin.  I’d like to weigh in personally, in response to some of the strong objections and concerns about increased traffic that have currently polarized many who live in that area.  I’m actually quite optimistic about the Cameron Village area becoming the next hip, urban place where people not only shop, but increasingly want to live, work and play.

I believe that these two large mixed use developments will prove to be important catalysts for the Cameron Village area to strengthen its character as a magnet for dynamic and productive downtown living.  This is in keeping with its long history as a center for visionary urban planning that brings together residents in a walkable neighborhood where shopping and restaurants are part of the fabric of the community.

“Density is the outcome of a productive place, not the cause”.

I see a snow ball effect that is headed in a positive direction.  With this development:

• Existing Cameron Village shops will see an increase in business.
• More retail will be added along Oberlin road, attracting more pedestrians.
• Increased pedestrian activity will drive streetscape improvements.
• New residents will use existing public transport, setting the example for existing residents.
• Increased demands for public transport will provide new connections to downtown.
• Cameron Village will become the model for other “urban villages” to develop in and around downtown.
• The success of these urban villages will feed the continued revitalization of our downtown.

It’s already started to happen . . . 

Crescent Apartments, despite having the highest rent per square foot in Raleigh, has received 6,400 applications for their 290 units now under construction in Cameron Village.

401 Oberlin rendering

More and more people want to live in and around downtown in a mixed use, pedestrian oriented environment.  It is hard for those who live in quiet neighborhoods, who often depend on their cars to shop and go to work to envision anything beyond the challenges of increased traffic associated with higher density.  But I suggest an alternate view, that with more people residing in a smaller area, the neighborhood will grow organically to support a lifestyle that underlines social connection, sustainability, and healthy living.

I’m all for it!