By James Dobbins
On the evening of August 25, Northwood Ravin, the developers of the Northgate Mall property, held a Zoom community meeting during which they presented a current plan for that parcel. The prior plan proposing a mix of commercial, retail and residential has been abandoned. Instead, the developers are contemplating an office and commercial use plan.
Their concept is to rezone the mall to the more flexible Commercial General designation and make the facility conducive to Life Sciences businesses and Creative office space. No prospective tenants have committed or been identified, as it is too early in the process. The renovations to the mall itself will be limited and the Shops at Northgate would get a “facelift,” retaining its current tenants. A small park area would be created near the old Sears area.
The parking decks would remain, but some of the internal roadway will be redirected to make it easier to traverse the parcel without exiting to Club Boulevard.
In addressing questions regarding affordable housing, the attorney for the project, Patrick Byker (919-590-0384 or pbyker@morningstarlawgroup.com) said that under current regulations, an affordable housing component was not feasible. Mr. Byker resides in and has deep local ties to Durham, and welcomes discussions with the community.
This latest incarnation of the redevelopment is still in its early stages, and it could be years before it is completed. We encourage anyone with questions or concerns to contact Mr. Byker.
