Blue Ridge Road corridor could get a facelift

City Council members on Monday discussed transforming the 3-mile stretch of Blue Ridge Road that encompasses neighborhoods and venues like Carter-Finley Stadium, PNC Arena and UNC Rex Hospital.

Turning the area into a municipal service district would mean more economic development and options, like hosting festivals in the district, proponents say.

Wake County, Raleigh approve multi-million dollar sports complex for Cary Towne Center

But property and business owners may have to pay up more.

Business and property owners living in the district would pay an additional tax to help fund additional services, like litter pickup and hospitality.

It would also aid in supporting public events and economic development.

Raleigh residents hope Downtown South development doesn't price them out of neighborhood

Joanne Swartz, who lives in the area, said an additional tax could be worth it.

“It would bring a lot more jobs, probably, as it would bring more income for the people of Wake County,” she said.

Raleigh already has two municipal service districts: Hillsborough Street and the Downtown Business District.

Elise Jansen, who works at Jubala Coffee, would like to see additional entertainment options.

“I think it’s a good idea to get the Raleigh community spread from outside downtown, have more things going on,” she said.

Midtown Raleigh is getting a makeover

While the plan is still in its early stages, Swartz said she sees it as a great investment.

“It’s something that’s going to make life better in the Triangle,” she said.