TO: Mayor and Members of City Council
THRU:
FROM: Council Member Lynne Greene
DATE: November 2, 2026
RE:Title
City Council Agenda Item Request - Catalyst Site One - Discussion of Economic Development Options - Council Member Greene
Title
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COUNCIL DISTRICT(S):
Council District(s)
2
b
Relationship To Strategic Plan:
Priority 2 - Enhance economic growth opportunities throughout the City
Executive Summary:
Since we have been awarded the HUD grant for the Murchison Choice project, we need to be diligent and deliberate in all aspects of the Catalyst Site One. In 2016, Red Rock Global did a study for our City. We have completed many pieces of that study. I would like to see that study updated by Red Rock Global or at minimum, a comprehensive look at what was suggested originally for that site. This single site is a GATEWAY into the Murchison Rd corridor and a link to downtown, via NC Veterans Park and the ASOM. We cannot miss this opportunity to "get ii right" and must have discussions around what is the "highest and best" use for this site. We did commit, in our HUD application, to provide housing, but there are other potential housing sites within 1-2 miles that may be acceptable alternatives. l believe that workforce housing is needed, but I do not believe this is the location for it.
I would like to see an update to the Red Rock Global study from them, showing the items completed and those which could still be completed, along with any changes they would suggest, based on current trends and peer city successes, particularly for Cat Site 1. If such an update Is determined to be cost prohibitive, then at minimum an update from Economic Development discussing the same. I would like the public to have an opportunity to voice their ideas also, like they were able to do on the Blount Street/Gillespie Street project. It is important that we hear from everyone.
The site also needs to be evaluated as to whether it is still In a floodway. When the Rowan Street bridge was redesigned, it may have corrected the flooding issue, but we need a civil engineer to evaluate the site to determine its suitability for whatever it may become. That single issue will guide much of our conversation.
Some ideas which I have heard across our City regarding this site are: retail shops, green space, an open air market with a live music venue, education area where all of the local universities have a presence, market rate residential rental units above retail shops for Instructors at FSU, etc.
I believe this is our opportunity to reshape this corridor and spur economic development in the contiguous areas.
Background:
Issues/Analysis:
Budget Impact:
Options:
Recommended Action::Recommended Action
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Attachments:
City Council Agenda Item Request