#raleigh-business — Public Fediverse posts

City of Raleigh Government Event Guide September 15, 2026 Edition

Raleigh’s government calendar for Tuesday, September 15, 2026, includes two City Council sessions, a virtual workshop on registering as a city vendor, and an evening Arts Commission meeting.

For residents following local government and businesses interested in the city’s vendor registration process, this guide highlights the day’s scheduled meetings and learning opportunities.

City Council Work Session

Time: 11:30 a.m.
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

The Raleigh City Council begins its scheduled meetings with an 11:30 a.m. work session. Residents interested in the council’s discussions should review the meeting agenda for specific topics and supporting materials.

City Council Afternoon Session

Time: 1 p.m.
Category: Council and Council Committee Meetings

The City Council afternoon session starts at 1 p.m. Residents can consult the agenda to identify items of interest and review any associated documents before the meeting.

Check the city’s meeting information for attendance details, viewing options and any applicable public participation procedures.

Registering as a City Vendor Info Session

Time: 3 p.m.
Format: Virtual
Category: Community and Workshops
Registration: Advance registration encouraged

Businesses interested in learning about Raleigh’s vendor registration process can attend this virtual information session.

The workshop is an opportunity to explore how to register as a city vendor. Interested participants should use the registration option in the city’s event listing to obtain access details.

Arts Commission Meeting

Time: 6 p.m.
Category: Boards and Commissions
Registration: See the event listing for the registration option

The Raleigh Arts Commission meets at 6 p.m., rounding out Tuesday’s government calendar. Residents interested in the commission’s work can review its agenda for the evening’s scheduled topics.

Check the event listing for meeting access, registration and participation details.

Plan Your Tuesday

The day’s schedule offers several opportunities to follow Raleigh government:

• 11:30 a.m.: City Council Work Session
• 1 p.m.: City Council Afternoon Session
• 3 p.m.: Registering as a City Vendor Info Session — virtual
• 6 p.m.: Arts Commission

All times are Eastern. Confirm meeting locations, agendas, registration requirements and access instructions through the City of Raleigh’s official event listings before attending.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for daily updates on government meetings, local festivals, and community happenings — your one-stop guide to everything Raleigh!

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

Advertise With Us: Interested in Advertising click here.

Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Free Raleigh Watch Party Connects Faith-Driven Entrepreneurs on September 18

Raleigh entrepreneurs looking for encouragement, practical insights, and meaningful connections can attend a local conference watch party on Friday, September 18, 2026, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. The gathering takes place at 821 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh, NC 27606, with the registration fee waived for those attending at the main Raleigh watch party site.

The two-hour event brings together business owners and leaders interested in building businesses that honor God while navigating the demands of entrepreneurship.

Real Conversations About Faith and Business

Entrepreneurship often comes with risk, rejection, difficult decisions, and a sense of isolation. This conference focuses on those realities through insights from experienced founders who have faced the challenges of building and sustaining a business.

The announced conference lineup includes John Maxwell, Daniel Green, and additional speakers, with programming focused on the relationship between faith, leadership, and the everyday work of running a business.

Attendees can expect a message centered on practical experience, connecting Christian convictions with the persistence and judgment that entrepreneurship requires.

Connect With Other Raleigh Business Leaders

The Raleigh watch party offers an opportunity to meet fellow entrepreneurs, exchange perspectives, and build relationships with people who understand the responsibilities of business ownership.

For founders who feel alone in their approach to business, the gathering provides a place to connect with others who see faith as a source of strength and direction. Its morning format also makes participation possible without an all-day commitment or overnight travel.

Event Details

• Date: Friday, September 18, 2026
• Time: 8:30–10:30 a.m.
• Location: 821 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh, NC 27606
• Format: Local conference watch party
• Cost: Registration fee waived for attendees at the main Raleigh watch party site

Entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders interested in attending can register for the Raleigh watch party here⁠.

State of Downtown Raleigh 2026 Recap: Growth, Investment and Challenges Shape the City’s Core

Downtown Raleigh’s continued growth, major development projects and ongoing public-safety concerns took center stage during the annual State of Downtown Raleigh meeting on Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

Presented by PNC at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, the event brought together business owners, developers, city officials and community stakeholders. It also marked the 30th anniversary of the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, the organization responsible for promoting and supporting the city’s downtown districts.

Downtown Raleigh’s Population Continues to Grow

One of the meeting’s biggest themes was downtown Raleigh’s shift from a primarily business-centered district into a growing residential neighborhood.

According to the 2026 State of Downtown Raleigh Report⁠, downtown now has approximately 16,841 residents, an increase of more than 1,000 residents during the past year.

Downtown Raleigh’s population has increased by approximately 116% since 2015, while nearly 7,000 housing units have been completed during that period. The report also estimates that another 7,419 residents could be added by 2031 if much of the proposed residential development is completed.

Apartment demand remains relatively strong, with stabilized downtown properties reporting an occupancy rate of approximately 92.5%.

An $8.5 Billion Development Pipeline

Downtown Raleigh currently has an estimated $8.5 billion in projects completed, under construction, planned or proposed since 2015.

The development pipeline includes:

• Approximately $3.67 billion in completed investment
• Approximately $1.68 billion in projects under construction
• More than $3.1 billion in planned or proposed projects
• Thousands of additional apartments, condominiums and hotel rooms
• New office, retail, entertainment and public spaces

Major projects discussed during the program included One Nash Square, the redevelopment of Heritage Park, the planned conversion of the downtown Sheraton into a Westin hotel, City Gateway and additional investment from Kane Realty and Highwoods Properties.

A New Convention and Entertainment District Is Emerging

Several projects on downtown Raleigh’s southern end are expected to create a larger convention, hospitality and entertainment district.

The new 601-room Omni Convention Hotel, Raleigh Convention Center expansion and permanent Red Hat Amphitheater represent nearly $1 billion in combined investment within several downtown blocks.

The new Red Hat Amphitheater has topped out and is scheduled to open for the 2027 outdoor concert season, with space for more than 6,000 guests.

Construction has also started on Raleigh’s Bus Rapid Transit system, which will make downtown the center of the Triangle’s first major BRT network.

More Downtown Businesses Are Opening

The report counted 83 storefront openings since July 2025, bringing downtown Raleigh’s total to more than 550 restaurants, bars, stores and service businesses.

Downtown’s culinary scene also received national recognition, with eight restaurants included in the MICHELIN Guide.

Small-business owners participating in the meeting discussed why they selected downtown Raleigh and how residential growth, tourism and special events are helping create new opportunities.

Downtown Tourism and Events Remain Strong

Downtown Raleigh recorded approximately 22.5 million visitor visits between July 2025 and June 2026, representing about 5.1 million unique visitors.

Major investments in the convention center, Red Hat Amphitheater, hotels, museums and public spaces are expected to increase downtown’s ability to attract conventions, concerts and regional visitors.

The report also highlighted downtown’s more than 180 public-art installations, 18 performing-arts and concert venues and 492 acres of park space within one mile of the city center.

Public Safety Remains a Major Concern

Despite positive economic numbers, public safety and the perception of downtown remained major parts of the conversation.

Downtown Raleigh Alliance President and CEO Bill King said overall crime has declined, but highly visible incidents—including a large drug investigation near Moore Square and a July gathering involving groups of teenagers—have affected how some residents and visitors view downtown.

Speakers acknowledged that improving safety will require more than enforcement. The design and operation of GoRaleigh Station, transportation access, social-service needs and consistent activity throughout downtown were also identified as complicated issues requiring additional attention. ABC11 reported⁠ that attendees also called for better mass transit and stronger connections between downtown and Dorothea Dix Park.

The Oakline Could Connect Downtown Raleigh and Dix Park

Participants also heard about The Oakline, a proposed elevated trail and public-space concept that could improve connections between downtown Raleigh and Dorothea Dix Park.

The project is part of a larger effort to make it easier for people to walk, bike and travel between downtown neighborhoods, Dix Park and future development near South Saunders Street.

Other improvements highlighted during the meeting included two-hour free parking in city-owned decks, new Fayetteville Street tree lighting and an additional $1 million investment in Fayetteville Street streetscape improvements.

Five Downtown Projects Receive Imprint Awards

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance presented its 2026 Imprint Awards to five projects that made significant investments in the downtown area:

• IDYLE — A collection of 10 Net Zero-ready residences on South Bloodworth Street
• Oldham & Worth — A 252-unit mixed-use development on West Cabarrus Street
• The Holston at The Weld — A 20-story residential tower near Dorothea Dix Park
• Ray at The Weld — A 392-unit residential tower with retail space
• 122 Glenwood — An adaptive-reuse office and retail development in Glenwood South

The Imprint Awards⁠ recognize projects investing more than $2 million while contributing to downtown Raleigh’s growth and vitality.

What the State of Downtown Meeting Means for Raleigh

The 2026 meeting presented a downtown experiencing significant growth but also navigating the challenges that come with becoming a larger urban center.

Residential development, new businesses, tourism and billions of dollars in investment continue to reshape the city’s core. At the same time, public safety, affordable housing, transportation and connections between downtown neighborhoods will remain important issues as Raleigh plans its next phase.

The message from downtown leaders was clear: Raleigh has made substantial progress, but continued cooperation between residents, businesses, developers and city government will be necessary to create a downtown that is safe, welcoming and accessible to everyone.

Problems with Downtown Raleigh

Downtown Raleigh has few major retailers because national chains generally follow consistent foot traffic—they rarely create it. Raleigh’s downtown has historically been an office and government center, while the region’s shopping activity developed around suburban destinations such as Crabtree, North Hills, Village District, Brier Creek and Fenton.

The main barriers are:

• Many storefronts are too small. Historic downtown buildings frequently offer narrow, individually owned storefronts without the loading areas, ceiling heights, parking or 20,000-plus contiguous square feet required by larger retailers. Combining several properties is expensive and complicated.
• Downtown’s retail identity is locally oriented. More than 90% of its stores have historically been independent businesses. Downtown therefore has boutiques, bookstores, specialty stores, markets, restaurants and service businesses—but no major Retailer, No Major Pharmacy, and No Entertainment.

The situation is improving. Downtown recorded 83 storefront openings during the latest reporting period, while thousands of apartments, new hotels, the convention-center expansion and relocated Red Hat Amphitheater are in the development pipeline. If residential density and visitor activity continue growing, downtown could eventually support a medium-format Target, national apparel stores or another destination retailer.

The missing ingredient is not available storefronts—it is a dense, dependable, seven-day customer base surrounding those storefronts.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for Raleigh news, development updates, government coverage and local event guides.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

Advertise With Us: Interested in Advertising click here.

Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Noteworthy News Around Raleigh and the Triangle – Parking Rates, New Developments, Business Openings and More

From higher downtown parking rates and major development projects to new restaurants, cultural attractions and economic growth, Raleigh and the Triangle continue to change rapidly. Here are the local headlines residents should know this week.

Downtown Raleigh Parking Rates Increase August 1

Parking in downtown Raleigh will become more expensive beginning Saturday, August 1, 2026.

Hourly rates at non-event city garages will increase from $2 to $3, while event parking garages will charge $4 per hour. The daily maximum will rise to $21 at non-event decks and $24 at event decks.

On-street parking will be standardized at $1.50 per hour citywide. Street parking will remain free after 6 p.m. on weekdays and throughout the weekend.

The city’s free two-hour parking program at participating non-event downtown decks will continue Monday through Friday. View the complete parking rate changes from the City of Raleigh⁠.

City Gateway Brings Automated Parking Downtown

Construction is underway on the City Gateway district, beginning with a street extension and an automated underground parking garage.

The two-level facility will use robotic lifts and shuttles to store and retrieve vehicles, making it North Carolina’s first public automated parking system. A roughly 27,000-square-foot public plaza is planned above the garage.

The first phase is expected to open this winter, adding a futuristic parking option to downtown Raleigh.

Major Mixed-Use Development Planned Near Wegmans

Lincoln Property Company and Spectrum Companies are partnering on a 10-acre mixed-use development behind Trader Joe’s and Wegmans in Raleigh.

Plans call for a combination of apartments, townhomes, retail space, offices and a hotel. The development joins a growing list of large projects reshaping Raleigh’s housing and commercial landscape.

Research Triangle Park is undergoing a similar transformation. Once known almost exclusively for corporate campuses and research facilities, RTP now includes apartments, restaurants, retail and public gathering spaces that give portions of the park the feel of a small town.

Highline Glenwood Changes Raleigh’s Skyline

Construction on the 37-story Highline Glenwood tower has climbed beyond 10 stories, making the building increasingly visible above Glenwood South.

The approximately $200 million luxury apartment project broke ground less than a year ago. Once completed, it will become one of the most prominent additions to Raleigh’s expanding skyline.

North Raleigh is also experiencing a luxury housing boom. Exeter Building Company is developing custom homes starting at approximately $2 million in communities including Glenhill, Shinleaf Estates, Stratford and Maple Ridge Cove.

Raleigh-Cary Job Growth Ranks Near the Top Nationally

Raleigh and Cary added jobs faster than 99% of U.S. metropolitan areas during the 12 months ending in May, according to economic research from PNC.

The region’s employment growth reportedly outpaced larger markets including Atlanta and Washington, D.C. The numbers underscore the Triangle’s continued appeal to technology, life-sciences, professional-services and advanced-manufacturing employers.

That growth is also intensifying concerns about housing affordability. Although housing inventory has increased, high home prices and mortgage rates continue to strain household budgets and could affect business recruitment and workforce retention.

Fujifilm Expands Its Holly Springs Campus

Fujifilm Biotechnologies has launched the first two manufacturing facilities at its Holly Springs campus, where approximately 860 employees are now working.

Construction continues on the $3.2 billion complex. Two additional facilities are expected by 2027, potentially doubling the campus’s production capacity and further strengthening the Triangle’s position as a major biotechnology hub.

Durham-based medical technology company 410 Medical has also raised $12 million to bring its LifeFlow device to market. The system is designed to deliver fluids rapidly to patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock or sepsis.

Raleigh Startup Brings AI to Vertical Farming

AgEye Technologies is using artificial intelligence to automate vertical farming operations.

The Raleigh startup says its technology can help growers harvest crops in approximately half the time required by conventional methods. The company is also expanding beyond North Carolina through projects in the Middle East.

Meanwhile, North Carolina’s technology job market showed mixed signals in June. Data from the NC TECH IT Job Trends Dashboard indicated that postings declined from approximately 7,400 in May to 6,900 in June. National technology job postings, however, remained 5.6% higher than in June 2025.

New Art Gallery Coming to North Hills

Reehl Fine Art is scheduled to open in North Hills this November.

The contemporary gallery is a partnership between Willa Kane and Raleigh artist Caroline Boykin. It will occupy the former Lululemon space at 4421 Six Forks Road and showcase work from approximately 30 artists.

New Businesses Coming to Celebration at Six Forks

Celebration at Six Forks is adding three tenants:

• Bagel Dock Express
• Koi Sushi & Hibachi
• G13 Jiu Jitsu

The additions will bring new dining and fitness choices to the North Raleigh shopping center.

Blue Ridge Realty is also adding retail space to The Atrium at Blue Ridge near UNC Rex Hospital. The space is expected to become available during the first quarter of 2027, supporting additional dining options and improved walkability around the office development.

LGBT Center of Raleigh Celebrates Its New Home

The LGBT Center of Raleigh is settling into its new downtown location and will hold a housewarming celebration on Friday, August 7, from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

The First Friday event will feature building tours, crafts, cake and access to the Queer Clothing Closet.

New SHARE Carts Reduce School Food Waste

A growing Wake County program is helping students share unopened cafeteria food instead of throwing it away.

Students may place eligible, unopened items on SHARE carts so classmates can pick them up later. The program keeps usable food out of landfills while providing free snacks to students during the school day.

Wake County Invests $22 Million in Homelessness Response

Wake County is investing $22 million in Wake at Home, an initiative designed to help approximately 1,400 people obtain stable housing over 18 months.

The plan includes moving an estimated 400 people from encampments into permanent housing while connecting them with supportive services.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Reopens Enrollment

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has reopened enrollment in 42 North Carolina counties following the restoration of state funding.

Eligible children from birth through age 5 in Wake, Durham, Orange and other participating counties can once again register to receive a free book by mail every month.

M&F Bank and Optus Bank Announce Historic Merger

Durham’s M&F Bank, North Carolina’s oldest Black-owned bank, is merging with South Carolina-based Optus Bank.

The combination is expected to create the nation’s largest Black-owned bank, with more than $1.3 billion in assets. The merger represents a new chapter for an institution closely connected to Durham’s historic Black Wall Street.

Changes at Smoky Hollow

Tucker Street Diner has closed less than 18 months after opening, becoming the latest restaurant to leave Smoky Hollow. Its sister restaurants, Peak City Diner in Apex and The Shiny Diner near Crossroads, remain open.

A new concept from the team behind Iris Coffee Lab is preparing to take over the former diner space. Madeleine Coffee + Bread will bring a coffee shop and bakery to the development.

While construction continues, the business plans to operate a small pop-up outside the future location.

Andia’s Ice Cream Plans for Growth

Andia’s Ice Cream has leased a new 13,000-square-foot production facility in Raleigh.

The hub is expected to triple the company’s production capacity and create room for additional expansion across the Triangle.

Elsewhere in the local retail market, Nike has closed its smaller-format store at Fenton in Cary as part of the company’s broader turnaround strategy.

Cary Pasta Restaurant Closes Amid Owner’s Health Struggle

La Grassa Pastificio has closed after five years in Cary.

Chef-owner Bobby Reynaud attributed the decision to worsening health and his need for kidney and heart transplants. Supporters have organized a GoFundMe campaign to help him during his medical struggle.

Arrow Haircuts Expands Beyond North Carolina

Raleigh-based Arrow Haircuts is preparing to enter the Charleston, South Carolina, market after growing to 11 locations across North Carolina.

Owner Andy Phipps signed leases for the Charleston locations in 2025, with openings anticipated in 2027.

Raleigh Police Headquarters Moves Downtown

The Raleigh Police Department has moved its headquarters to 111 W. Hargett Street.

Department leaders, including the police chief’s office, are now based downtown. City officials say the move should improve coordination and strengthen RPD’s presence in the city center.

North Carolina Considers Minimum Liquor Prices

The North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission is studying whether the state should establish a minimum retail price for liquor.

Public comments were accepted through July 29, with the commission expected to present its findings in August. Supporters and critics are watching to see how a minimum-price policy could affect consumers, retailers and public health.

State Expands Paid Parental Leave

North Carolina’s Public Workforce Modernization Act expands paid parental leave for eligible full-time state and public-school employees to 12 weeks.

Previously, workers generally received four or eight weeks depending on the circumstances of the birth. The change represents a significant increase in benefits for thousands of working parents.

NCCU Receives More Than $110 Million

North Carolina Central University is set to receive more than $110.3 million in state funding under North Carolina’s new budget.

University leaders said the investment responds to NCCU’s growing enrollment and will support future opportunities for the institution and its students.

St. Augustine’s University, meanwhile, is launching online certificate programs as it seeks additional revenue during bankruptcy proceedings. The unaccredited Raleigh HBCU faces approximately $74 million in debt while leaders consider options that may include selling university property.

Raleigh’s Film and Television Industry Grows

Film and television productions have generated more than $175 million in spending across North Carolina this year.

Projects ranging from Netflix’s “The Hunting Wives” to MrBeast’s “Beast Games” are contributing to renewed momentum for the state’s production industry.

Major Concerts Generate Revenue for NC State

Large concerts are becoming an important source of revenue for NC State athletics.

Carter-Finley Stadium recently hosted major performances by Guns N’ Roses and Noah Kahan. University officials say concerts provide opportunities to generate additional income from the stadium outside the Wolfpack football season.

North Carolinians also wagered approximately $590 million on sports in June, driven partly by the Stanley Cup Final and World Cup. June was the final month before the state’s higher sports-betting tax rate took effect, with new revenue earmarked in part for UNC and NC State athletics.

Raleigh Marks 20 Years Since Fayetteville Street Reopened

July 2026 marks 20 years since Fayetteville Street reopened to vehicles following three decades as a pedestrian mall.

The reopening helped launch a new period of downtown investment and revitalization. Two decades later, the city’s main street continues to evolve amid concerns about vacant storefronts, construction, public safety and changing downtown habits.

Raleigh’s Food and Drink Scene Earns Recognition

Twelve Raleigh restaurants earned places in Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards for their wine programs. Local honorees include Second Empire, Sullivan’s Steakhouse and Barcelona Wine Bar.

Raleigh also has a new homegrown sparkling water. The city partnered with Trophy Brewing to create Oak City Sparkle, carbonated Raleigh tap water served at municipal events. Future retail sales are planned to support utility-bill assistance through Raleigh Water’s customer assistance program.

Raleigh Parks Add Wildlife and Recreation Attractions

A colorful painted bunting has returned to the sunflower field at Dorothea Dix Park, giving visitors another reason to explore the popular seasonal attraction.

Construction is also underway on a sanctioned do-it-yourself skatepark at Jaycee Park. Raleigh skateboarders will help design and build ramps and obstacles as part of the community-driven project.

Beyond Raleigh, four litters of critically endangered red wolves have been born in eastern North Carolina this year. The births represent another encouraging step in efforts to restore the species in its native habitat.

State scientists have also formally named the Carolina redhorse, a rare fish studied for more than six decades. The newly recognized species is classified as threatened, providing wildlife officials with additional tools to protect it.

Financial Scams Cost North Carolinians Millions

North Carolina residents lost approximately $8.4 million to financial scams in 2025.

Reported schemes included cryptocurrency fraud, fake employment offers and other cyber-enabled scams. Residents should be cautious about unsolicited investment opportunities, requests for cryptocurrency payments and job offers that require upfront fees.

More Raleigh and Triangle Headlines

Other noteworthy developments include:

• Three trucks reportedly struck the low-clearance Peace Street Bridge during a single week, renewing attention on one of downtown Raleigh’s most infamous traffic hazards.
• Kimley-Horn, the Raleigh-based planning and engineering consulting firm, was recognized in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026–2027 Best Companies to Work For ratings.
• Nominations for GrepBeat’s 2026 Startups to Watch awards remain open through Friday, July 31.
• The Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau held its eighth annual Meeting Professionals Summit for local tourism and business leaders.
• The North Carolina Symphony announced its 2026–2027 Pops Series, featuring music associated with Joni Mitchell, Blondie, Motown and other popular artists.
• Former Army and Tar Heels football player Doc Blanchard was named to Sports Illustrated’s list of the 50 greatest college football players of all time.
• Stephen Stroud, the influential Triangle businessman and real estate leader who helped bring the Carolina Hurricanes to Raleigh, died at age 83. His work helped shape developments including Brier Creek, Highwoods and Cary Crossroads.
• Donna Kelce, mother of NFL stars Travis and Jason Kelce, recently visited the Triangle, dining at Coquette in North Hills before attending Bingo Loco at The Ritz.
• Peer-to-peer services such as Swimply and Turo continue to expand local options for renting private pools and vehicles.
• A lack of shade remains a summer concern in downtown Raleigh’s Warehouse District, where residents and visitors should plan carefully during periods of extreme heat.

From business growth and cultural attractions to housing, transportation and community investment, Raleigh and the Triangle are entering another busy period of change.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh, including local news, government updates, restaurant openings, development coverage and upcoming events.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

Advertise With Us: Interested in Advertising click here.

Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Noteworthy News Around Raleigh & the Triangle – Restaurants, Development, Housing and More

Raleigh and the Triangle are ending July with major developments across the restaurant, business, housing, entertainment and education sectors.

A new bakery is replacing Tucker Street Diner in Smoky Hollow, Wake County is investing millions to address homelessness, Raleigh Police leadership has moved downtown and one of Durham’s most historic financial institutions is preparing for a transformative merger.

Here’s a roundup of noteworthy news from around Raleigh, Durham, Cary and the Triangle.

Madeleine Raleigh Is Coming to Smoky Hollow

One door closes and another opens in Smoky Hollow.

Just days after Tucker Street Diner closed, the owners of Iris Coffee Lab announced plans to open Madeleine Raleigh, a new coffee shop and bread bakery, in the former diner space.

Madeleine is expected to offer specialty coffee, cold-fermented breads and inventive baked goods. The location is only a short walk from Iris Coffee Lab on Tucker Street, giving the owners a larger footprint in the growing Smoky Hollow and Glenwood South area.

While construction is underway, the team plans to introduce the concept through a small pop-up outside the future location. Madeleine could open before the end of 2026. ABC11⁠

Tucker Street Diner Closes After Less Than 18 Months

Tucker Street Diner closed less than 18 months after opening, becoming the latest restaurant to leave the Smoky Hollow development.

The restaurant’s sister businesses—Peak City Diner in Apex and The Shiny Diner near Cary Crossroads—remain open.

The rapid arrival of Madeleine Raleigh means the prominent restaurant space will not remain empty for long.

Raleigh Startup Brings Artificial Intelligence to Farming

Raleigh-based AgEye Technologies is using artificial intelligence to automate vertical farming.

Its technology helps indoor growers monitor crops, improve growing conditions and determine the ideal time to harvest. According to Triangle Business Journal, the system could allow some growers to harvest crops in roughly half the time required through traditional farming methods.

The Raleigh startup is also expanding beyond North Carolina, including work on agricultural projects in the Middle East.

M&F Bank and Optus Bank Plan Historic Merger

A major institution in Durham’s Black Wall Street history is entering a new chapter.

M&F Bank, founded in Durham in 1907 and recognized as North Carolina’s oldest Black-owned bank, is merging with South Carolina-based Optus Bank.

The combined financial institution is expected to become the nation’s largest Black-owned bank, with more than $1.3 billion in assets. The merger could expand access to capital for individuals, entrepreneurs and underserved communities throughout the Southeast.

Wake County Launches $22 Million Homelessness Initiative

Wake County is investing approximately $22 million in a new initiative designed to reduce homelessness and move people into stable housing.

The Wake at Home initiative intends to help approximately 1,400 people during the next 18 months. Its goals include connecting 400 people currently living outside with permanent housing and support services by December 2027.

The program also plans to help about 1,000 people experiencing homelessness for the first time return to housing more quickly through financial assistance and coordinated services. WUNC⁠

Raleigh Police Leadership Moves Downtown

The Raleigh Police Department has officially moved its headquarters leadership into downtown Raleigh.

The police chief’s office and other department leaders are now based at 111 W. Hargett St. City officials say the move will improve coordination between departments and strengthen RPD’s presence in the downtown district.

Peace Street Bridge Claims Three More Trucks

Despite warning signs and years of highly publicized crashes, the Peace Street Bridge continues to surprise drivers of oversized vehicles.

Three trucks reportedly struck the low-clearance railroad bridge during a single week, ripping open or severely damaging the tops of their vehicles.

The repeated collisions have made the bridge one of downtown Raleigh’s most infamous transportation landmarks.

Raleigh Prepares for North Carolina’s First Public Automated Garage

The underground parking garage being constructed as part of City Gateway will use robotic lifts and shuttles to park and retrieve vehicles.

Drivers will leave their vehicles inside a designated transfer area. The automated system will then move each vehicle into an available underground space without requiring the driver to navigate the garage.

When it opens this winter, the facility is expected to become North Carolina’s first public automated parking system.

Fayetteville Street Marks 20 Years Since Reopening

July 2026 marks 20 years since Fayetteville Street reopened to vehicle traffic.

The downtown corridor operated as a pedestrian mall for approximately three decades before being redesigned and reopened in 2006. That transformation helped encourage new restaurants, residential development, festivals and private investment downtown.

Twenty years later, Fayetteville Street continues to evolve as city leaders and business owners confront vacancies, changing work patterns and public-safety concerns.

Highline Glenwood Changes the Raleigh Skyline

Construction on Highline Glenwood has moved beyond 10 stories, making the tower increasingly visible throughout Glenwood South.

The $200 million luxury apartment project is planned to reach 37 stories. Once completed, it will become one of Raleigh’s tallest buildings and add another major residential development to the downtown skyline.

New Retail Space Planned Near UNC Rex Hospital

Blue Ridge Realty is adding retail space to its existing Raleigh office property near UNC Rex Hospital.

The Atrium at Blue Ridge is expected to become available to tenants during the first quarter of 2027. The project is intended to provide additional food, retail and service options while making the office area more walkable.

Raleigh’s Growth Intensifies Housing Concerns

North Carolina’s economic growth continues to attract employers and new residents, but it is also creating significant housing challenges.

Although the number of homes available for sale has increased, high prices and mortgage rates continue to strain household budgets. Housing affordability is also becoming an economic-development concern as companies consider whether workers can afford to live near new jobs.

Local leaders are evaluating zoning reforms, denser development and other strategies that could expand the housing supply.

Andia’s Ice Cream Expands Raleigh Production

Andia’s Ice Cream has leased a new 13,000-square-foot production facility in Raleigh.

The new hub is expected to triple the company’s production capacity and prepare the popular local ice cream brand for additional expansion throughout the Triangle.

La Grassa Pastificio Closes in Cary

La Grassa Pastificio has closed after five years in Cary.

Chef-owner Bobby Reynaud said declining health and his need for kidney and heart transplants contributed to the difficult decision to close the handmade pasta restaurant. Supporters have organized a GoFundMe campaign to assist Reynaud and his family.

Nike Closes Its Fenton Store

Nike has closed its smaller-format store at Fenton in Cary.

The closure comes as the athletic retailer reevaluates portions of its retail strategy and scales back several smaller locations around the country.

Carter-Finley Stadium Becomes a Major Concert Destination

Major concerts are becoming increasingly important to NC State athletics.

Guns N’ Roses and a sold-out Noah Kahan concert brought thousands of music fans to Carter-Finley Stadium. University leaders say stadium concerts provide a new source of revenue for Wolfpack athletics while bringing additional visitors and spending to Raleigh.

Noah Kahan’s team also partnered with Triangle businesses to create local fan experiences, including exclusive merchandise and menu items at Record Krate and Parallax Coffee in Wendell.

North Carolina Film and Television Production Is Booming

North Carolina’s film and television industry is enjoying a strong year.

Productions ranging from Netflix’s “The Hunting Wives” to MrBeast’s “Beast Games” have helped generate more than $175 million in reported in-state spending during 2026.

That spending supports production crews, hotels, restaurants, equipment providers and other local businesses.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Reopens Enrollment

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library has reopened enrollment in 42 North Carolina counties after state funding was restored.

Wake, Durham and Orange counties are among the participating communities. Eligible children from birth through age 5 can receive one free, age-appropriate book in the mail every month.

St. Augustine’s University Adds Online Certificate Programs

St. Augustine’s University is launching new online certificate programs as the Raleigh HBCU works to generate revenue during bankruptcy proceedings.

The university, which is currently unaccredited and reportedly faces approximately $74 million in debt, hopes the programs will help preserve the institution as its leaders consider restructuring options and possible land sales.

NCCU Receives More Than $110 Million

North Carolina Central University is set to receive more than $110.3 million through the new North Carolina state budget.

University leaders say the funding will help NCCU respond to enrollment growth and invest in opportunities for students.

“This investment is about opportunity, impact and the future of North Carolina Central University,” Chancellor Karrie G. Dixon said in a statement.

Paid Parental Leave Expands for North Carolina Public Employees

North Carolina’s Public Workforce Modernization Act expands paid parental leave for eligible full-time state and public-school employees.

Qualifying employees may now receive up to 12 weeks of paid leave, replacing a system that previously offered four or eight weeks depending on the circumstances of the birth.

The change could provide greater financial stability for thousands of working parents across the state.

North Carolina Tech Job Postings Dip

North Carolina’s technology job market slowed slightly in June, according to the NC TECH IT Job Trends Dashboard.

Job postings reportedly declined from approximately 7,400 in May to about 6,900 in June. National technology postings, however, remained 5.6% higher than in June 2025.

The numbers suggest employers are hiring more cautiously, but demand for technology skills remains stronger than it was one year ago.

Kimley-Horn Earns Workplace Recognition

Raleigh-based Kimley-Horn was included in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026–2027 Best Companies to Work For ratings.

The engineering, planning and design consulting firm was evaluated using factors such as compensation, benefits, work-life balance, professional development and workplace stability. U.S. News evaluated nearly 3,900 public and private companies for its latest ratings. U.S. News announcement⁠

Raleigh Remembers Real Estate Leader E. Stephen Stroud

E. Stephen “Steve” Stroud, the influential businessman who helped bring the Carolina Hurricanes to Raleigh, has died.

Stroud played a role in major developments including Brier Creek, Highwoods, Cary Crossroads and office properties near Rex Hospital. He was also involved in efforts that brought the Hurricanes from Connecticut to North Carolina. WRAL⁠

Raleigh Introduces Oak City Sparkle

Raleigh now has its own sparkling water.

The city partnered with Trophy Brewing to create Oak City Sparkle, carbonated Raleigh tap water being served at city events.

Future retail sales are planned, with proceeds expected to support Raleigh Water’s utility-bill assistance program for residents experiencing financial hardship.

Wildlife News From Around North Carolina

Visitors to Dorothea Dix Park’s sunflower field have another colorful attraction to look for: a painted bunting has returned to the park.

Elsewhere in North Carolina, scientists have formally named the Carolina redhorse after more than 60 years of research. The rare fish is now recognized as a threatened species.

Four litters of critically endangered red wolves have also been born in eastern North Carolina this year, offering another hopeful sign for efforts to restore the species in its natural habitat.

Raleigh’s DIY Skatepark Takes Shape

Construction is underway on a sanctioned, community-built skatepark at Jaycee Park.

Local skateboarders will help design and construct ramps, obstacles and other features. The project will give Raleigh’s skating community a legal place where participants can contribute directly to the park’s development.

More Raleigh and Triangle Headlines

Other stories generating attention include:

• Twelve Raleigh restaurants earned recognition in Wine Spectator’s 2026 Restaurant Awards, including Second Empire, Sullivan’s Steakhouse and Barcelona Wine Bar.
• The North Carolina Symphony announced its 2026–2027 Pops Series, featuring music associated with Joni Mitchell, Blondie, Motown and other influential performers.
• North Carolinians wagered approximately $590 million on sports during June, fueled partly by the Stanley Cup Final and FIFA World Cup.
• Nominations for GrepBeat’s 2026 Startups to Watch awards remain open through Friday, July 31.
• Raleigh hosted the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau’s eighth annual Meeting Professionals Summit.
• Former Army and Tar Heels football player Doc Blanchard was included on Sports Illustrated’s list of the 50 greatest college football players of all time.
• Donna Kelce visited the Triangle, dining at Coquette in North Hills before attending Bingo Loco at The Ritz.

From new restaurants and skyline-changing construction to historic investments in housing and education, Raleigh and the Triangle continue to change quickly.

Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh.

Connect With Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin

Share With Us: Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page.

Advertise With Us: Interested in Advertising click here.

Published by Bryan Tomlinson | BTDesigns.pro |

Instagram Finally Lets Users Rearrange Profile Grid Posts: What You Need to Know

Instagram has officially rolled out one of its most requested features, giving users more control over how their profiles look.

Beginning June 8, Instagram users can now rearrange the order of posts displayed on their profile grid, ending years of frustration for creators, businesses, influencers, and everyday users who wanted greater flexibility in showcasing their content.

Until now, Instagram profiles displayed posts strictly in chronological order, meaning the newest content automatically appeared at the top of a user’s grid. While users could pin a limited number of posts, they couldn’t fully customize the layout of their profile.

That changes with Instagram’s latest update.

What Is Instagram’s New Grid Rearrangement Feature?

The new feature allows users to manually move posts around their profile grid and place content exactly where they want it. This gives users the ability to create a more curated and visually appealing profile without having to delete and repost older content.

For content creators, photographers, brands, and businesses, the update opens up new opportunities to:

• Highlight important content
• Improve profile aesthetics
• Create cohesive visual storytelling
• Showcase products and services more effectively
• Organize content by themes or campaigns

Why This Matters for Businesses and Creators

For Raleigh-area businesses and local creators, Instagram remains one of the most important social media platforms for connecting with customers and audiences.

The ability to rearrange posts means businesses can now:

• Keep promotions visible longer
• Feature seasonal campaigns
• Highlight customer testimonials
• Showcase best-performing content
• Maintain a professional brand appearance

This update could be particularly valuable for restaurants, event organizers, real estate professionals, photographers, nonprofits, and local influencers looking to maximize their Instagram presence.

How to Rearrange Posts on Instagram

To use the new feature:

1. Open your Instagram profile.
2. Access profile editing options.
3. Select the option to edit your grid layout.
4. Drag and drop posts into your preferred positions.
5. Save your new profile arrangement.

The feature is rolling out to all Instagram users beginning June 8, so if you don’t see it immediately, make sure your app is updated and check again soon.

A Win for User Customization

Instagram users have been requesting profile grid customization for years. The platform has gradually introduced more profile management tools, including pinned posts and enhanced creator features, but full grid rearrangement has remained at the top of users’ wish lists.

With this update, Instagram is giving users more creative control while helping brands and creators better showcase their content.

As social media platforms continue evolving, features like this highlight the growing importance of personal branding, content strategy, and visual storytelling online.

Stay Connected with DoRaleigh

Looking for more updates on social media trends, technology, local business news, and what’s happening around the Triangle? Follow DoRaleigh.com for everything Raleigh.

Post your community News, Events, on our Submissions Page. If you interested in Advertising click here.

Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | BSky | Linkedin