Raleigh rolls out new plan for growth tonight

RALEIGH -- The city will officially introduce a new vision to guide growth for the next two decades at an open house tonight at the Raleigh Convention Center.

The plan is the culmination of 18 months of work by city staffers and consultants. If approved by the City Council, the plan would funnel 60 percent of Raleigh's growth to downtown, seven urban centers and a number of major road corridors.

Known as the draft comprehensive plan update, the document addresses land use, environmental protection, urban design, arts and culture, regional coordination and implementation. City officials say it is substantially simpler than the current comprehensive plan.

Tonight's event will run from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. and is open to all Raleigh residents. Registration will begin at 6:30 p.m., and copies of the plan will be available.

The program will include short presentations. Attendees also will be able to talk with members of the city council, planning commission, city planning staff and other city boards and commissions. The project consultants also will attend. Policy maps, including a new future land use map, will be on display.

The city also plans public workshops on the plan next month. The workshops will be held:

* Tuesday, Jan. 13, at Providence Baptist Church, 6339 Glenwood Avenue;

* Wednesday, Jan. 14, at Moore Square Magnet Middle School, 301 S. Person St.; and

* Thursday, Jan. 15, at Church of God of Prophesy, 1200 S. State St.

At all three workshops, registration will begin at 6 p.m. with programs and open houses from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

People can read the plan and make comments at www.planningraleigh2030.com. The comment period will be open through Jan. 31.