Plaza renovation adds place to gather in downtown Raleigh

Market and Exchange plazas connect Fayetteville and South Wilmington streets, flanking an empty high-rise. The city is investing about $1 million to add built-in granite seating, improved lighting and updated planters, increasing the walkable space downtown.

"It's very dark. It's used by a lot of people for not normal things to do, such as going out there throwing up, using it as a bathroom area, throwing garbage," Sadeghi said.

Urban designer Luke Wallenbeck's plan would replace dimly lit, overgrown eyesores with an attractive open space.

"This will give you a place to go, sit and eat your lunch or read a book," she said. "It looks like they'll be welcoming."

Sadeghi, too, said he is excited to see the change. At Bolt, they hope to capitalize on the improvements.

"It's good for downtown. Hopefully all businesses will benefit from it," he said.

City leaders envision the plazas will be used for small concerts or other small events. The work on both the plazas is expected to be complete this fall.