Growth slow near RBC Center

Raleigh, N.C. — Almost 10 years since Triangle leaders broke ground on the RBC Center, development near the arena is slow going.

The area of west Raleigh recently took a hit when Damons, the only sports bar across from the arena, closed.

“We parked the car, got our tickets and came here and it was closed much to our dismay,” visiting hockey fan John Lohman said.

Damon's locked doors are another indication that the area needs more businesses if it wants to be labeled an entertainment destination hub.

“I think it's coming,” City Councilman Philip Isley said.

Isley's said the mixed-use development known as the Wade Project, about a mile from the RBC Center, could help boost future development. About 75 percent of the office space is already leased. But it could take another two or three years before the Wade Project is complete.

“It's about getting people living there and working there and then ultimately staying there to have their entertainment,” RBC Center General Manager Dave Olsen said.

Olsen said future growth and development will help the arena's bottom line.

“We need people like Damons, and other restaurants and entertainment to continue to make this a destination to come to,” he said.

Isley said The Museum of Art will also have a significant impact on the area. It is currently undergoing a multi-million dollar upgrade and expansion.