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"Grow something here." That's how an extemporaneous poem written by Poetry Fox during Raleigh's 2026 State of the City ended. This year's address shared updates on development, affordable housing, and growth and announced Raleigh's inaugural poet laureate program.

The poet laureate role is new for Raleigh — Poetry Fox is actually Durham's poet laureate — and applications are open through April 17. Are you a poet and totally know it? No experience is needed, and the chosen poet will represent Raleigh for two years with poetry commissions, community events, and more.

Cowell also provided some updates to Raleigh's fast growing environment.

Raleigh just hit 500,000 residents, and 250,000 are expected in the next 25 years.
The new Raleigh City Hall will open in about a year.
An approx. $100 million affordable housing bond might be on the ballot this fall.
Property crime is down 17%, and violent crime is down 1%.
24,000 trees will be planted by 2032 to celebrate 240 years of Raleigh.