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I’m still awestruck by the destruction caused by the tornado to the Caraleigh community in Southwest Raleigh. I got a chance to visit some friends from Caraleigh Mills last night, their apartment was destroyed and they aren’t sure when they can move back in.

I recently saw that Earp’s Seafood (pictured above) is planning to rebuild. Earp’s has a prime location on the corner of South Saunders Street and Maywood avenue. I’m excited that they are looking to rebuild. But is this a chance to really do something special?

As tragic as the damage is, I see opportunity. Some people are concerned about a mass exudus from the businesses on South Saunders Street. I see this as an economic boost. The short-term will not be pretty, but Earp’s is primed to be the cornerstone for South Saunders Street and really set the tone.

How cool would it be if Earp’s redeveloped into a 2-3 story building—a seafood market on the first floor and a restaurant above? And it’s not just Earp’s that has this opportunity. The other businesses have a chance to rebuild and redevelop.

I would like to see the City of Raleigh Planning reach out to this impacted area to explore a small area plan. Let’s give this corridor a common vision and partner with the Caraliegh community and create something great.

This is a chance to set the tone for the urban development that is clearly desired in the Comprehensive 2030 plan and a key entrance to downtown Raleigh. What do you think?

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