The Future of Downtown Apex: Major Changes Ahead
Apex, North Carolina, is undergoing a significant transformation in it’s downtown area, and the project promises to benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike. The Apex Revitalization Plan, which kicked off in January, aims to revamp the heart of the town with new infrastructure, more parking, and vibrant public spaces. Randy Vosburg, the Town Manager, gives us a glimpse into the multiple phases of this redevelopment project, highlighting how these changes will shape the town’s future.
The Revitalization of Downtown Apex
Phase 1: Parking Expansion
One of the most immediate improvements in Downtown Apex is the expansion of parking. The first phase of the Apex Revitalization Plan focuses on the Saunders Lot, which will add over 150 new parking spaces, including more than nine spaces dedicated to electric vehicle chargers. This is a crucial development, as parking availability in downtown areas is often challenging for visitors and businesses. A downtown shuttle service will be introduced to enhance convenience, ensuring visitors can easily navigate the area, even if they park a bit further away.
This phase kicked off quickly, thanks to collaboration with local businesses, who have worked alongside the town to help bring this vital project to life. By increasing parking capacity, the revitalization plan ensures more people can access downtown businesses and events without the stress of searching for parking.
Phase 2: The Salem Streetscape Transformation
Once Phase 1 is completed, attention will shift to Phase 2, focusing on transforming Salem Street. This part of the project involves removing on-street parking for expanded sidewalks, landscaping, and a more pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. The idea is to transform Salem Street into a space that invites people to linger, shop, dine, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of downtown.
This phase is fascinating as it will enhance the overall aesthetics of the area, making it more visually appealing and accessible for pedestrians. Additionally, the space will be ideal for hosting community events such as festivals, further adding to Apex’s vibrant spirit. While Phase 2 is still in the planning stages, it is expected to begin after the completion of Phase 1. Careful consideration is given to minimizing disruption to local businesses during construction.
Phase 3: Revitalizing Alleyways
Following the transformation of Salem Street, the final phase will focus on revitalizing the alleyways in Downtown Apex. While these alleys are functional today, they have the potential to be so much more. This phase aims to beautify the alleyways and transform them into inviting spaces that can host outdoor dining, activities, and community gatherings.
This project aligns with the vision of creating a more connected and vibrant downtown area. Outdoor dining is becoming more popular, especially in post-pandemic times, and transforming these spaces into charming spots for restaurants and cafes will undoubtedly enhance the appeal of Downtown Apex.
Additional Improvements and Incentives for Growth
Beyond the outlined phases, Apex has additional plans to develop the downtown area further. The town council is committed to incentivizing businesses that renovate or improve their properties, offering grants to support these efforts. These incentives are designed to attract new businesses and help existing ones thrive.
Moreover, there are plans to consolidate Fire Stations 1 and 3, making Station 1 available for new development by the private sector. While the specifics of this project are still being drafted, it is an exciting opportunity for the area to evolve with the times while preserving its historical charm.
Conclusion
The Apex Revitalization Plan is an ambitious and exciting project to revitalize Downtown Apex. This redevelopment will benefit everyone who visits or works in the area by improving parking and pedestrian infrastructure and creating vibrant public spaces. Stay tuned as these phases unfold and Apex continues to grow into an even more dynamic and inviting community.
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