The Chapel Hill Downtown Plan is rooted in the principles of placemaking. The plan seeks to reimagine the urban landscape, enhancing connectivity, vibrancy, and sustainability. Central to this vision are the integration of new greenway trails, open spaces, and a new transit hub. The new network of greenway trails stitch together the fabric of Chapel Hill as attractive corridors connecting neighborhoods, parks, economic centers and cultural landmarks. The greenway is punctuated with a variety of open spaces, such as pocket parks, plazas, and gathering areas that provide opportunities for social interaction, recreation, and cultural enrichment. As a placemaking strategy, these public spaces serve as focal points, fostering a sense of belonging and identity within the community, while simultaneously activating local shops and restaurants. The vision plan also incorporates a new transit hub. Positioned at a strategic nexus, the hub offers residents and visitors convenient access to key destinations, reducing reliance on private vehicles and mitigating traffic congestion, all of which are central to increasing walkability. Another key strategy is the creation of pedestrian-friendly streetscapes and infrastructure, including new traffic calming measures. Together, these changes create an environment conducive to improved connectivity, business activation, placemaking and economic development. Additionally, the plan promotes mixed-use development, fostering a diverse array of retail, dining, and cultural amenities within walking distance of residential neighborhoods and the nearby university campus. By prioritizing the needs of pedestrians, the downtown vision plan seeks to cultivate a sense of place, belonging, and vitality, transforming Chapel Hill into a model of sustainable urban living.

Planned Davin Hong at Kling Stubbins