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Durham council adopts Walltown Small Area Plan after months of neighborhood-led work
Summary
After extensive community engagement and a unanimous council vote, Durham City Council adopted the Walltown Small Area Plan and approved place-type map changes for several parcels, including reclassifying three city-owned lots near Sprunt Avenue as recreation and open space.
Durham City Council on Monday voted to adopt the Walltown Small Area Plan, a neighborhood-led land-use guidance document meant to shape redevelopment of the former Northgate Mall site and broader Walltown neighborhood.
The nonbinding plan, presented by senior planner Karl Kolozna, recommends a phased transition for the Northgate site to a higher-density, mixed-use, transit-oriented grid with affordable housing, affordable retail, public/community space, and environmental protections. Kolozna told the council that “Small area plans are advisory, and they are not legally binding.”
The plan grew from a citywide comprehensive plan update and a targeted planning process requested by elected officials; staff said Walltown was prioritized because of redevelopment potential at the nearly 60-acre former Northgate Mall. Kolozna said the plan was developed through “equitable community engagement and staff analysis,” and that the plan went to the planning commission with a 12–0 recommendation.
Neighborhood advocates and residents who testified urged adoption and urged the council to protect community leverage in future…
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