The facts: Hillsborough Street has undergone many changes in the past few years. A new Kerr Drug is currently under construction on the intersection of Hillsborough Street and Friendly Drive, next to University Towers. This development will demolish businesses along that block.
Our opinion: Though Hillsborough Street has gone through a complete transformation, the construction and redesigning has ultimately resulted in positive outcomes for the University. The new Kerr Drug will add to these positive changes; however, we hope that Hillsborough Street will not become too corporate and will maintain its college feel.
The News and Observer describes the area of Hillsborough Street housing Time Out, the Brewery, Pantana Bob’s and other shops as the “rundown block,” which may become home to a new corporate development. These buildings currently stand in harsh contrast with the newly developed stores and roads on the rest of Hillsborough Street.
Hillsborough Street has gone through a remarkable transformation over the past few years. The city of Raleigh proceeded to redesign Hillsborough Street in 2002 and the street finally has a new face. The changes to the street are striking and have so far added positive features to N.C. State. However, the city of Raleigh should take care to prevent commercialization of Hillsborough Street and maintain its college feel.
N.C. State’s main surrounding roads are Hillsborough Street and Western Boulevard. Western has its fair share of chain restaurants and convenience stores, but maintains some unique features. Hillsborough Street is the aesthetic, college street with the center of social life for State and Meredith College students.
The Hillsborough construction project has resulted in brand new roads, sidewalks, roundabouts and new businesses like Fresh Berry frozen yogurt and Hotbox pizza. So far, the changes to the University’s street have brought it back to life. The changes have benefited University students, staff and Raleigh inhabitants.
The new Kerr Drug will undoubtedly serve students well. There is a need for a regularly priced convenience store within walking distance for those without transportation. However, with large corporate complexes come competition, and if Walgreens and CVS Pharmacies start to sprout up on Hillsborough Street as well, they will swallow the integrity of the street.
The changes to Hillsborough were needed and beneficial. Hillsborough is now a good recruiting tool for prospective athletes, according to new Swimming and Diving coach Braden Holloway. It also attracts upcoming freshmen. But if Hillsborough turns corporate the University will sit a campus within a capitalist conglomerate. Change is always good, and Hillsborough is going in the right direction — we just don’t want to lose our identity. The city of Raleigh should always consider the University before agreeing to new projects on Hillsborough.
