Raleigh Seeks Development Ideas Near Moore Square

City looks to spur new housing, commercial, and dining options around the downtown park.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:21pm

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An impressionistic, out-of-focus scene of people walking through a sun-dappled park, with soft pools of warm light and color, conceptually representing the uncertain future of Raleigh's Moore Square.The future of Raleigh's Moore Square remains uncertain as the city seeks new development ideas to activate the downtown park and surrounding neighborhoods.Today in Raleigh

The City of Raleigh is seeking proposals from developers for areas east and south of Moore Square, with the goal of bringing new multifamily housing, affordable units, commercial space, and outdoor dining to the downtown park area. City leaders hope the redevelopment will 'bring activity and energy' to Moore Square, City Market, and the east side of the city's center.

Why it matters

As Raleigh's downtown continues to evolve, the future of Moore Square has become a focal point. The city is aiming to strike a balance between preserving the park's character and activating the surrounding areas with new residential, retail, and dining options that could benefit both residents and visitors.

The details

The city has outlined specific priorities for the project, including multifamily and affordable housing, along with commercial space and outdoor dining options. Developers have until mid-May to submit their proposals, after which the city will review submissions and decide which, if any, to move forward with near Moore Square.

  • The city is seeking development proposals until mid-May 2026.
  • Any redevelopment near Moore Square is still months away from breaking ground.

The players

City of Raleigh

The local government of Raleigh, North Carolina, which is seeking proposals for new development around Moore Square in the city's downtown.

Geraldine Lewis

A Raleigh resident who expressed support for new affordable housing and activity around Moore Square.

Cary Welborn

A Raleigh resident who said he is open to new ideas for the area around Moore Square, as long as they build on what already exists.

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What they’re saying

“I love it. They have so many different things going on every day. I never know what to expect when I walk down here.”

— Geraldine Lewis, Raleigh resident

“It sounds like there's already a lot going on, but it'd be cool if they could enhance everything.”

— Cary Welborn, Raleigh resident

What’s next

Developers have until mid-May 2026 to submit their proposals to the City of Raleigh. The city will then review the submissions and decide which, if any, to move forward with near Moore Square.

The takeaway

Raleigh's efforts to reimagine the area around Moore Square highlight the city's desire to balance preserving the character of the downtown park while also activating the surrounding neighborhoods with new housing, retail, and dining options. The outcome of this development process could have a significant impact on the future vibrancy of Raleigh's city center.