Building a More Connected Midtown: What the Walkable Midtown Plan Means for Our Community
Midtown Raleigh is growing—and so is the need to make our streets safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for everyone. That’s where the Walkable Midtown Plan comes in. Developed with community input and adopted by the Raleigh City Council in December 2020, the plan lays out a roadmap for a connected, pedestrian-friendly Midtown that works for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
A Community-Driven Approach
From the very start, Midtown’s graphic identity and mobility planning have been shaped by the community. The Walkable Midtown Plan reflects what residents and stakeholders have told MRA and the City: safe streets, better connections, and more spaces that invite walking, biking, and transit use.
Public workshops, surveys, and planning sessions ensured that the plan wouldn’t just exist on paper—it’s grounded in the needs and voices of the people who live and work here.
Seven Big Steps for a Walkable Midtown
The plan identifies seven key initiatives designed to make Midtown more connected and accessible:
- New Beltline Crossings – Create safer vehicular, pedestrian, and cycling connections across the beltline.
- Green Streets – Slow traffic, add greenery, and manage stormwater with purpose-built infrastructure.
- Connected Street Grid – Improve traffic flow and accessibility by linking streets more effectively.
- Long-Term Transit Expansion – Explore expanded bus service and potential Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) routes.
- Midtown Ring of Paths – Introduce multi-use paths, bike lanes, and greenways to create a cohesive walking and cycling network.
- Midtown Waterfront District – Investigate opportunities to connect Midtown to nearby green spaces and waterfronts.
- Mixed-Use Development – Encourage walkable, transit-friendly development that integrates retail, housing, and offices.
These initiatives are designed not only to improve mobility but to reinforce Midtown as a vibrant, attractive destination.
Why It Matters
The Walkable Midtown Plan is more than infrastructure—it’s about shaping a community that’s easier to navigate, safer for pedestrians, and better connected for everyone. By thinking strategically about streets, sidewalks, transit, and open space, the plan ensures that growth in Midtown enhances the quality of life rather than creating congestion or barriers.
Looking Ahead
Mobility improvements take time, but the Walkable Midtown Plan gives a clear vision of what’s to come. From connected streets to green corridors and enhanced transit, the plan lays the foundation for a more accessible, walkable, and thriving Midtown Raleigh.
Want to stay informed about mobility projects and community updates? Subscribe below and be part of the conversation shaping our streets and neighborhoods!