Raleigh Mayor Outlines Plan for City's Progress

RALEIGH, N.C. — Raleigh Mayor Charles Meeker focused on open space and downtown parking in his State of the City address on Monday.

Meeker wants to hire a consultant and appoint a citizens committee to improve the situation. One plan the city will consider is charging drivers to park on the street, and making parking decks less expensive or possibly free.

Many motorists have complained about parking issues in the downtown area. Some complaints involve the lack of parking spaces while others complain they are being targeted by aggressive meter readers.

"I kind of dreaded coming down here today to get something because I knew it wouldn't be a quick process," said downtown patron Meredith Ellis.

Meeker discussed his desire to connect 28 miles of greenway along the Neuse River from Falls Lake Dam to Johnston County.

The greenway plan may take a $30 million or $40 million bond referendum. If the city council agrees, it could be on the ballot in October. Meeker said he will also work to get state and federal grants for the greenway project.

Meeker delivered the speech to a Rotary Club meeting held at the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts.