Tell Raleigh City Council No – 30 Story Towers

Who is impacted?

If Z-12-25 is approved, it sets a precedent that 30 stories can be built adjacent to any neighborhood in Raleigh. Residents of the Historic Glenwood-Brooklyn Neighborhood and surrounding communities will face the direct impact of a 30-story tower just 240 feet from their homes. Families, longtime homeowners, renters, and small businesses will suffer from overwhelming scale, increased traffic, reduced sunlight, glare, noise and the loss of neighborhood character and value. This proposal places a high-intensity urban core at the edge of a low-density residential area ignoring established plans and many policies designed to help Raleigh grow sustainably and equitably. These policies are clear: no more than 12 stories is appropriate in this area. Anything more violates core urban planning principles and undermines the framework that protects Raleigh neighborhoods.

What is at stake?

If Z-12-25 is allowed to move forward, it will not only set a damaging precedent for development next to historic and residential areas, it will rewrite how Raleigh interprets its plans and policies. If Z-12-25 is allowed to move forward, it won’t just affect one neighborhood, it will reshape how Raleigh interprets its plans and policies citywide. A vote in favor will signal that the city’s plans can be ignored whenever developers push hard enough. Every neighborhood in Raleigh, historic or not, could face similar high-rise encroachment with little warning or recourse. The integrity of Raleigh’s long-term planning, its commitment to walkability, livability, housing diversity and a diverse urban fabric are all on the line.

Raleigh absolutely needs more housing and more affordable options, but that requires thoughtful, long-term planning. We need to build a true diversity of housing types and price points, protect naturally occurring affordable housing, address the role of institutional ownership, and focus on building what has already been rezoned. Simply approving more rezonings, especially ones that cut across all adopted plans and policies will not solve affordability. It will only undermine the foundation Raleigh has built for smart, equitable growth.

Why is now the time to act?

The Planning Commission will hear the case in August, and City Council will vote soon after. Once this precedent is set, it cannot be undone. The decisions made now will define what kind of city Raleigh becomes, whether we uphold sound planning principles and protect neighborhoods, or open the door to unchecked, inconsistent rezonings. We must act now to protect Raleigh’s plans, values, and communities and demand development that respects the city’s long-term vision.
Sign the Petition NOW!

The neighbors support the current zoning which allows for 12 stories.

12 stories IS DENSITY

12 stories provides needed housing

NOTE from Livable Raleigh – Mayor Cowell says she is keeping track of her email on the issue of the proposed 30-story tower at West St. If you are opposed to it and want to see Raleigh honor the Comprehensive Plan as Mayor Cowell said we should, then please email the Mayor and ALL the City Council to express your concerns. This email address will send your message to all council members: citycouncilmembers@raleighnc.gov or you can find complete contact information for each councilor and their social media accounts here: City Council Contacts

More on this proposal:

The Impact of Cherry-Picking Policy  – Part One

The Impact of Cherry-Picking Policy  – Part Two

The Impact of Cherry-Picking Policy  – Part Three

Is West St in the Core of Downtown?

Do City Plans have a Use By Date?

Councilor Silver Must Recuse!

West St Tower Violates Raleigh Downtown Plan

West St Tower Violates Equitable Transit Development

West St Tower Violates the Capital Blvd Corridor Study

West St Tower Proposal Violates the Comprehensive Plan

West St Tower Neighborhood Meeting – All Stand!

Want to know more about these signs?

Urge Raleigh to Stick to the Plan

City Council We Have a Problem

Downtown Raleigh Weekend Entertainment Guide – August 8–10th Edition

Downtown Raleigh is buzzing with live music, history tours, food events, and family-friendly activities this weekend! Whether you’re craving a flavorful brunch, exploring local history, laughing at stand-up comedy, or joining a scavenger hunt, the Downtown Raleigh Weekend Entertainment Guide has your weekend plans covered.

Friday, August 8, 2025

Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca

7:30 am – 2:00 pm | The Mecca Restaurant

Kickstart your Friday with delicious comfort food at one of Raleigh’s most iconic eateries.

Downtown Raleigh Historian-Guided Tour

3:00 pm | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Discover fascinating stories about the City of Oaks from a local historian on this guided walking tour.

Downtown Raleigh True Crime Tour

8:00 pm | Moore Square

Uncover Raleigh’s mysterious past on a chilling true crime walk through historic downtown streets.

Frozen Fridays at Wolfe & Porter

6:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Wolfe & Porter

Cool down with frozen cocktails and summer vibes at this popular downtown bar.

Late Night at Longleaf: Stand-Up Comedy

9:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Longleaf Hotel

Enjoy a night of laughs with local comedians and late-night drinks.

Punk Angels with Thick Modine

9:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Slim’s Downtown

Catch high-energy punk rock in one of Raleigh’s most beloved music venues.

Saturday, August 9, 2025

A Taste of Downtown Raleigh Food Tour

2:30 pm – 5:30 pm | City of Raleigh Museum

Savor the flavors of downtown with this guided food tour highlighting Raleigh’s best eats.

Jazz Brunch in the Courtyard – Jose Albizu Jazz Trio

10:00 am – 1:00 pm | Sitti Authentic Lebanese

Relax with smooth jazz and delicious Mediterranean brunch dishes.

Second Saturday Markets at Videri

10:00 am – 1:00 pm | Videri Chocolate Factory

Shop local artisan goods while enjoying the sweet aroma of fresh chocolate.

Raleigh Sip N’ Stroll Treasure Hunt

6:00 pm – 7:00 pm | Crank Arm Brewing

A team-based scavenger hunt with drinks, downtown fun, and plenty of surprises.

Jake Potter with Ol’ Joey Scrums!

9:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Slim’s Downtown

End your Saturday with a lively night of local music and great vibes.

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Yoga on the Bloc

10:30 am – 11:30 am | YogaSix Glenwood South

Start your Sunday with an energizing yoga flow in the heart of downtown.

Sunday Tradition: Half-Priced Spaghetti & Meatballs at Gravy

11:00 am – 10:00 pm | Gravy

Indulge in a hearty Italian classic at half the price.

Lean Into Lyrical Workshop

1:30 pm – 3:30 pm | Current Wellness

A creative writing and performance workshop for poetry and spoken word enthusiasts.

Downtown Raleigh Kids Bricks & Minifigs Treasure Hunt

2:00 pm – 3:00 pm | Bricks & Minifigs

A fun scavenger hunt for kids featuring LEGO® bricks and prizes.

Raleigh African American History Tour

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm | Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar

Learn about the rich African American history that shaped the City of Oaks.

Run 40 Band with Medium Heat

9:00 pm – 11:00 pm | Slim’s Downtown

Close out the weekend with live music and high-energy performances.

Your Downtown Raleigh Weekend Starts Here

For more downtown events, nightlife, dining, and family fun, follow DoRaleigh.com—your go-to source for everything happening in the heart of Raleigh.

Friday in the Triangle Entertainment Guide August 8th Edition

Looking for things to do in the Triangle this Friday? Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, art enthusiast, or just looking for a fun night out, the Friday in the Triangle Entertainment Guide has your perfect plan. From National Frozen Custard Day deals to outdoor movies, live music, comedy, and cultural events, there’s something for everyone.

All-Day Friday Fun

National Frozen Custard Day at Freddy’s

All Day | $1–$3

Celebrate with sweet savings! Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is offering $1, $2, and $3 custard deals at participating locations.

National Chicken and Waffles Day at Metro Diner

All Day | $5 off

Enjoy Southern comfort at its best with $5 off chicken & waffles at Metro Diner in Raleigh.

Uproar Festival of Public Art – Orange County

All Day | FREE

Experience large-scale public art installations scattered across Orange County—perfect for a self-guided art adventure.

CatVideoFest

All Day | Various locations

A purr-fect event for cat lovers! Watch the best cat videos from around the world at two Triangle locations.

Morning & Early Afternoon Events

Tasting at Ten – Counter Culture Coffee, Durham 10:00 am | FREE – Enjoy a guided coffee tasting and learn from local roasters. Calvin Jones House Guided Tour – Wake Forest Historical Museum 11:00 am | FREE – Explore the life of Dr. Calvin Jones and early Wake Forest history. Music & Arts Camp – Highland United Methodist Church, Raleigh 12:00–5:00 pm | $100 (week-long) – Creative activities for kids and teens. Incredible Science – NC Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh 1:30 pm | FREE – Hands-on science fun for curious minds. Toast to Ten – The Durham Hotel 2:00–4:00 pm | FREE – Celebrate The Durham’s 10th anniversary. Reflections: Virtual Tour – Nasher Museum of Art, Durham 2:00 pm | FREE – Enjoy an online art experience from anywhere. Calvin Jones House Guided Tour (Second Showing) 2:00–2:45 pm | FREE – Afternoon history session.

Late Afternoon & Evening Events

10-Year Throwback Party on the Roof – The Durham Hotel 5:00–10:00 pm | FREE – Music, cocktails, and city views. Summer Fridays at Wedgewood – Carrboro 5:00–8:00 pm | FREE – Free wine & cheese tastings. Bike Night – Red Moose Brewing, Pittsboro 5:30–8:00 pm | FREE – Motorcycle meet-up with brews. Friday Night on White – Wake Forest 6:00–9:00 pm | FREE – Live music by The Brickhouse Band. Summer at The Springs – Holly Springs Cultural Center 6:00–9:00 pm | FREE – Outdoor concert series. Live Music: Alexander Mark – Gizmo Brew Works, Raleigh 6:00–9:00 pm | FREE Live Music: Big T Country – The Glass Jug Beer Lab, RTP 6:00–9:00 pm | FREE Peel Gallery Reception – Carrboro 6:00–9:00 pm | Opening of Look, It’s All Connected. Downtown Cary Park Movie Series: Guardians of the Galaxy 6:00–10:00 pm | FREE 2nd Friday ArtWalk – Chapel Hill & Carrboro 6:00–9:00 pm | FREE Free Wine Tasting – Local 919, Raleigh 6:00 pm | FREE Single Track Social Series – Crank Arm Brewing, Durham 6:00 pm | FREE Plant Bingo – Oaklyn Springs Brewery, Fuquay-Varina 6:30 pm | FREE Chime In Open Mic – Lanza’s Cafe, Carrboro 6:30–8:00 pm | FREE Raleigh International Folk Dancers – Glen Eden Pilot Park 6:30–10:00 pm | $3 Bynum Front Porch Summer Music Series – Curtis Eller’s American Circus 7:00 pm | FREE Outdoor Movie at 321 Coffee (Downtown Raleigh): A Minecraft Movie 7:00 pm | FREE Free Live Music – Compass Rose Brewery, Raleigh 7:00–9:00 pm | FREE Friday Co-Working Social – Glass Jug Downtown Durham 7:00–10:00 pm | FREE Video Game Night – Moon Dog Meadery, Durham 7:00–11:00 pm | FREE Comedy Open Mic – The Common Market, Durham 7:00 pm | FREE Friday Family Flicks – Garner Recreation Center: A Minecraft Movie 7:15 pm | FREE Stand-up Comedy Open Mic – Durty Bull Brewing, Durham 8:00–11:00 pm | FREE Movie Night at MOSAIC: Oppenheimer – Pittsboro 8:30 pm | FREE Karaoke Fridays – Flying Bull Beer Company, Durham 9:00 pm | FREE Karaoke Bingo Nights – KōMANA Brewing, Cary 9:00 pm | FREE Sir Walter Miler Post Race Party – Raleigh Brewing 10:00 pm | FREE

Stay in the Loop

For the latest Triangle events, dining deals, live music, festivals, and seasonal activities, follow DoRaleigh.com—your go-to source for everything in the Triangle.

City of Raleigh Official Weekend Event Guide August 9–10th Edition

Looking for the best things to do in Raleigh this weekend? Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a teen-friendly hangout, or a relaxing Sunday evening, the City of Raleigh’s Official Weekend Event Guide has you covered. From art and creativity to poolside fun and live music, here’s what’s happening around town.

Saturday, August 9, 2025

Scrap Exchange Family Fun Day – 11 a.m.

Location: Hosted by Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Celebrate creativity and sustainability at the Scrap Exchange Family Fun Day! This hands-on event offers kids and adults the chance to create unique art projects from recycled materials.

Why go:

Family-friendly craft stations Learn about creative reuse and recycling Inspiring activities for all ages

Raleigh Teen Connect Back-to-School Pool Party – 1 p.m.

Location: Hosted by Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Teens, grab your swimsuits! The Back-to-School Pool Party is the perfect way to close out summer vacation. Expect music, games, and plenty of splashing fun.

Highlights:

DJ and entertainment Pool games & contests Meet and connect with other teens before school starts

Weather Radio Distribution – 1 p.m.

Location: Hosted by Community Engagement

Stay prepared for severe weather with a free NOAA weather radio. City staff will be on-site to answer questions about emergency readiness and distribute radios to residents.

Perks:

Free weather alert radios Tips for storm preparedness Meet local community safety teams

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Summer Concert Series – 6 p.m.

Location: Hosted by Parks, Recreation, and Athletics

Wind down your weekend with live music in the park. The Summer Concert Series brings together local talent and community spirit for an unforgettable evening. Bring your blanket, lawn chairs, and friends for a relaxing night under the summer sky.

Why you’ll love it:

Free live music from local artists Beautiful outdoor setting Perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends

Stay Connected with Raleigh Events

Don’t miss out on the latest happenings in the City of Oaks! Follow DoRaleigh.com for updates on festivals, community gatherings, concerts, and family activities throughout the year.