Durham Council Approves Massive Highway 70 Development

The council debated and narrowly approved a 310-acre Gateway at Brier Creek mixed-use project on Highway 70, weighing concerns about emergency response, traffic, and sprawl against promises of affordable housing and economic growth. Residents and council members voiced strong opinions on infrastructure, collaboration, and the future of Durham’s growth. 14mins

Planning & Zoning
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Original Meeting

Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025
16699.0
Full Meeting on YouTube
Video Notes

Welcome to the Durham City Council meeting for September 2, 2025.

To view the meeting agenda, visit http://DurhamNC.gov/AgendaCenter.

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For details on how to participate, visit https://www.durhamnc.gov/1345

To contact City Council members directly, visit https://www.durhamnc.gov/1323

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Wes Platt
Durham, NC
Neighborhood news guy for Southpoint Access in Durham.
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In This Video
  • Jamie Schwader presented a proposed mixed-use development on Highway 70, outlining plans for research, commercial, and housing uses, road improvements, environmental measures, and commitments to affordable housing.
  • A speaker named Monique Fletcher voiced opposition to the proposed development, citing concerns about emergency access, increased traffic, environmental impacts, property damage, and disruption to the neighborhood.
  • A speaker raised concerns about fire response times, staffing shortages, and inadequate equipment, urging the council to prioritize infrastructure improvements before approving new developments.
  • Council Member Baker requested that the large-scale annexation and rezoning case be sent back to the Planning Commission to address concerns about sprawl and ensure smarter growth.
  • Council Member Caballero highlighted the applicant's collaborative approach with neighbors and discussed the project's alignment with the city's comprehensive plan and innovative affordability strategies.
  • Mayor Williams commented on the scale and economic impact of the proposed development, highlighting the large number of housing units, business opportunities, and concerns about the segregation of affordable housing.
  • The council held a vote on the development proposal, with the result announced as four in favor and two opposed. (Baker and Cook voted against approval.)
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