Residents, advocates split over proposed Big Branch Greenway route and costs

Dozens of residents and park and transportation advocates urged the Raleigh City Council during public comment to proceed with the Big Branch Greenway connector, while several neighborhood residents asked the council to reject a stream‑side segment and seek an alternative alignment.

The Big Branch Greenway connector would link Crabtree Creek Greenway to North Hills and beyond; proponents said it would serve transportation, recreation, and safe‑routes‑to‑school needs. Opponents focused on floodplain impacts, a long‑standing deed restriction near part of the route and a city cost estimate they said shows the proposed half‑mile stream‑side segment could exceed the project's total referendum budget.

Supporters stressed the project’s role in the city’s active‑transportation network and in improving safety and connectivity. “This greenway is more than a recreational path. It's a vital piece of Raleigh's active transportation network,” said…