Raleigh to hold public hearing on $30 million live, work, play development near Five Points neighborhood

The East End Market, a destination where developers want people to live, work and entertain, would sit along 11 acres at the intersection of Wake Forest and Whitaker Mill roads.

Neighbors said they're worried about the potential impact as it relates to increased traffic and buildings taller than what’s permitted by the city.

"I recognize that this is the right direction for our city," said Otis Lackey. "The issue we have, overall, is what the developer has proposed is out of whack with Raleigh's own guidance."

One of Lackey's concerns is tall buildings overshadowing homes.

"We'd like to cap the eight at seven stories. This is in line with all the other developments that have nestled in some of these older communities," he said.

The project hit a speed bump when Raleigh’s Planning Commission voted against approving the development in April.

"The rezoning request is not reasonable and in the public interest because the proposal is currently design-inconsiderate of existing residents and businesses," said Michele McIntosh, with Raleigh's Planning Commission.

Beth Carmichael wants to see city council follow the Comprehensive Plan, a roadmap on guiding growth in the city, before approving this project.

"If you go and interrupt that comprehensive plan, then you end up in a situation where someone's building Six Flags in your backyard. It's just not appropriate," said Carmichael.

WRAL News has reached out to David Knight, the councilman who represents the district where East End Market would be, and Austin Bell, one of the associates with the development group.