147 Overpass
Durham, North Carolina

This venture stands as a testament to the intricate relationship between the physical form of our cities and the values and history of our society. In Durham, a city grappling with the competing forces of development, prosperity, history, and community, this project becomes a microcosm of the city's layered past and present.

Situated in the vicinity of the American Tobacco Campus, the 147 Overpass site serves as a gateway to various eras in Durham's history. From its tobacco and industrial roots to the presence of the Durham and South Carolina Railroad and the subsequent rise of the automobile with the creation of the Durham Freeway, the site carries echoes of multiple time periods. It is also a witness to the city's shift towards downtown revitalization, with the emergence of the Bulls Stadium and the Durham Performing Arts Center. As ongoing residential and commercial developments continue to shape the city's core, new questions and possibilities arise.

In this context, the visionary approach of CBC in seeking ideas for the NC-147 overpass / Blackwell Street underpass site is truly commendable. This location holds immense significance, serving as a convergence point for both vehicular and pedestrian traffic, and linking prominent destinations such as the American Tobacco Campus, Durham Bulls Stadium, and the Miracle League Baseball Field. These attractions have played a vital role in rejuvenating the city and drawing visitors from neighboring communities.

The project presents a unique opportunity to explore the physical dialogue between Durham's past, present, and future. It aims to establish stronger and more welcoming connections to and from the downtown core, while also examining the potential of public-private partnerships involving CBC, the NC Department of Transportation (NC DOT), and the City of Durham. By leveraging the expertise and resources of these entities, the project aspires to become a framework for future development initiatives.

Through the Overpass project, Durham has the opportunity to create a physical space that reflects its vibrant history, embraces its present identity, and shapes its future trajectory. The project serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and forward-thinking approaches, where public and private entities join forces to create transformative spaces that enhance the overall urban experience. By harnessing the potential of the CBC Overpass site, Durham can further strengthen its position as a city that celebrates its past while forging a dynamic and inclusive future.

This project is intended to be a catalyst for dialogue, engagement, and community involvement. It represents a shared vision to create a vibrant and connected urban environment that resonates with the diverse fabric of Durham. The project is not merely about physical infrastructure but about the realization of a collective aspiration to shape a cityscape that reflects the values, aspirations, and aspirations of its residents and visitors alike.