Raleigh brimming with 'Big Ideas'

People of all ages gathered this spring to come up with a vision for the future of Raleigh. They devised a book of Big Ideas that will take time and money.

Posted 3:41 a.m. Sep 17, 2008 — Updated 2:36 p.m. Sep 17, 2008

RALEIGH, N.C. — Raleigh on Tuesday unveiled some "Big Ideas" for its future. Residents and city staff developed the plans; the challenge will be turning those thoughts into reality.

“We wanted to give the opportunity for residents to tell us what big ideas are out there. What would you like to see for our city?” Planning Director Mitch Silver said.

The "Big Ideas" book includes plans to redevelop Capital Boulevard. The project would have a man-made river walk just north of downtown, similar to San Antonio's River Walk, also known as Paseo del Río. Another idea was transportation, from high-speed rails to commuter trains.

And what is a city without a famous landmark? The Triangle Towers monument project would consist of three tall towers at the southern entrance to downtown.

Another plan is making a squirrel the City of Oaks' mascot, with squirrel statues placed all over Raleigh.

One of the most popular ideas was a sports arena or stadium just south of downtown.

“Because it's private property, you clearly have to talk about how do you move from the vision to reality. And some of these ideas can take 10 to 15 years,” Silver said.

The next step is for the city to decide which ideas should be designed and implemented. There is no funding for any of the projects.

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