Design firm Perkins Eastman recently released renderings of the forthcoming Raleigh Union Station Square development located next door to Union Station — and located right in the heart of the Warehouse District. (Thanks for the tip, Jed!)

The big picture: In October 2019, the City Council approved rezoning up to 40 stories for the 1.76-acre site located on West St. across from the Dillon building. The project will include approximately 25,000 square feet of retail space, hotel and office space, up to 300 residential units (15% reserved as affordable housing), 660 new parking spaces + GoTriangle’s new downtown bus hub. Click here to read the complete project narrative for Phase II of the Union Station development.

Raleigh Union Station Square site plan | graphic via DTRaleigh

By the numbers: In addition to private sector investment, GoTriangle has received $20 million in federal funding to support the construction of the new bus facility (#RUSBUS). The depot will be connected to Union Station by a pedestrian bridge + plans call for 10 total drop-off and pick-up bays for buses.

What to expect (and when): This multimodal hub is expected to begin construction in 2022, with complete delivery guaranteed by 2025 (when funds must be fully drawn). In addition to the known retail and residential space, the renderings suggest multiple outdoor dining areas — including a rooftop patio.

The bottom line: This little corner of downtown will not only change the skyline of our city, it will also have a huge impact on the way we travel and connect. This Union Station Square will serve as an intersection between transit commuters, destination travelers, pedestrians + downtown workers and residents. Stay tuned, we’ll keep you posted as we learn more. Click the button below to see more of the site designs.