North Carolina Construction News staff writer
Pacific Elm Properties and Gale Force Sports and Entertainment have released updated plans for the Raleigh Sports and Entertainment District.
Newly renderings show the new $1 billion mixed-use development surrounding the arena that serves as the home to the Carolina Hurricanes and NC State basketball.
Redeveloping the 80-acre site will provide new opportunities for shopping, dining and entertainment and will feature a unique outdoor space for tailgating and programming.
“Together with the Centennial Authority, we are committed to bringing new amenities to fans and creating experiences that bring more people to the arena and stadium area and encourage them to visit early, eat, and even stay over on-site,” said Brian Fork, chief executive officer of Hurricanes Holdings, LLC. “This development is the next step toward building the premier sports and entertainment district in the country and keeping the area a regional economic driver for decades to come.”
The first phase of construction, expected to begin in December 2025, will include an expanded plaza to complement the upcoming arena renovation. Furthermore, a 600-foot promenade lined with tailgating suites, balconies and new open space, a 150-key hotel and more than 500 apartments.
The anticipated timeline for buildout is 15 years.
Construction of the first phase also includes two parking garages that line either side of the tailgating experience, projected to be finished by the start of N.C. State’s football season in 2027.
“After more than two decades, we are fulfilling the creation of a world-class destination that our local and state partners expected when the Arena was opened in 1999,” said Philip Isley, chairman of the Centennial Authority. “This proposed development ensures that our Arena renovations will be enhanced by building this transformational sports and entertainment district to ensure our Arena remains a regional attraction and economic catalyst for many decades to come.”