2015 Downtown Raleigh Alliance Annual report

2015 DRA IMPACT DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT

OUR MISSION The Downtown Raleigh Alliance is an award-winning nonprofit organization whose mission is to continue the revitalization of Raleigh’s downtown by enhancing its quality of life and contributing to its economic success. On a day-to-day basis, DRA provides six core services that have a short-term and long-term impact on downtown:

1. Safety, Hospitality + Clean Ambassadors

2. Strategic Branding + Community Communications

3. Events Production

4. Retail Attraction + Merchant Promotions

5. Strategic Partnerships + Stakeholder Engagement

6. Strategic Planning

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A PROSPEROUS DOWNTOWN | 3

LETTER FROM OUR 2015 BOARD CHAIR 4 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

We’ve made a strong impact on downtown in 2015.

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance (DRA) greatly enhances the quality of life and economic success of Raleigh’s downtown. As our mission states, we provide services on a day-to-day basis that have a short-term and long-term impact on downtown’s revitalization. The services include: Clean and Safe Ambassadors; Strategic Branding and Community Communications; Events Production; Retail Attraction and Merchant Promotions; Strategic Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement; and Strategic Planning. From recruitment meetings to television interviews, we’ve proactively shared downtown’s story in a positive light throughout 2015. We’re proud of our accomplishments and the impact we’ve had on downtown, a snapshot of which is below: A FRIENDLY AND SAFE DOWNTOWN: We kept downtown Raleigh attractive with the Ambassador Clean Team removing 98,345 pounds of trash in 2015. The Ambassador Safety Team gave 1,554 safety escorts throughout the year, leading one downtowner to comment on her “feeling of safety” due the ambassadors’ presence.

A VIBRANT DOWNTOWN: We created some of downtown Raleigh’s vibrant activity with promotions such as the First Friday Raleigh Art Gallery Walk, Shop Downtown Raleigh, the Raleigh Mix, and Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week.

The Raleigh Mix received a complete makeover and now boasts a new mobilefriendly website with specials and events posted all year long in order to attract more business to downtown’s nightlife scene.

A MEMORABLE DOWNTOWN: We created positive memories of downtown Raleigh by producing Raleigh Winterfest with Raleigh’s only outdoor natural ice skating rink, the Raleigh Downtown Farmers Market, and the Downtown Raleigh Movie Series, which hosted a combined 170,000 attendees in 2015.

A PROSPEROUS DOWNTOWN: We’ve celebrated with 29 new street-level businesses that opened throughout 2015, conducted 13 ribbon cuttings, and given many interviews to highlight the momentum in the downtown retail market.

AN ENGAGING DOWNTOWN: We engaged downtown Raleigh residents, visitors, and stakeholders by creating useful websites and managing a bustling events calendar, which receives an average of 34,000 pageviews every month, making the DRA website THE place to find information on downtown Raleigh happenings.

A CONNECTED DOWNTOWN: We facilitated connections among downtown Raleigh stakeholders by hosting indoor networking events and producing reports with valuable information to aid in business recruitment efforts.

A COLLABORATIVE DOWNTOWN: We worked closely with the City of Raleigh to raise money for and recommend strategy in the city council-approved Downtown Plan for the next 10 years.

A TRANSPARENT DOWNTOWN: We are transparent in regards to our finances, and the $2.5 million budget provides a diverse array of revenue streams that leverage one another.

We thank you for your continued support of DRA and downtown Raleigh. It has been an honor to serve as Board Chair, and I thank our stakeholders for the privilege of allowing DRA to carry out such an important mission.

Rebecca Quinn-Wolf | PNC

LETTER FROM OUR BOARD CHAIR | 5

© Carolyn Scott

A CLEAN + SAFE DOWNTOWN A CLEAN, SAFE, AND FRIENDLY DOWNTOWN ENHANCES THE PERCEPTION OF OUR ENTIRE CITY, helps bring new investment to our city, and increases property values. The services provided by the clean and safe ambassador teams create a healthy economic impact for the City of Raleigh at a relatively low cost.

Easily recognizable in bright red shirts, the ambassadors patrol the streets and sidewalks on foot seven days a week, providing a strong uniform presence and elevating a sense of security. They act as safety escorts, provide directions and assistance, and patrol all five downtown districts, serving as additional “eyes and ears” for the police in downtown.

© Stacey Simeone

The ambassadors help address quality of life situations, such

as deterring aggressive panhandling and performing parking deck security.

DRA takes pride in enhancing the trash collection service provided by the City of Raleigh through the Ambassador Clean Team’s services. Additionally, the clean team contributes by picking up litter, removing graffiti, and performing special maintenance projects.

AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR DARELLE PATTERSON was born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio and relocated to the Raleigh area in 2005. Mr. Patterson joined the ambassador team in 2010 and has since been a dedicated member of the program. Mr. Patterson always maintains a positive attitude, which helps to motivate his peers, while also having a respectable work ethic and outstanding customer service skills. In addition, Mr. Patterson shows the utmost pride and professionalism while wearing the well-identified safety ambassador uniform. All of these fine attributes that Mr. Patterson delivers are key elements of what it means to be an ambassador in downtown Raleigh. He is considered a great asset, not only to the ambassador program, but to AlliedBarton Security Services as well and is therefore well-deserving of the “Ambassador of The Year” recognition.

The Ambassador Safety Team continues to professionalize its services and increase interactions with our community and business partners through the following: • Monthly meetings with Raleigh police district captain to strategize on ways to lower crime in downtown • Certified training for all ambassadors through North Carolina Private Protective Services • Providing downtown information via video for all new Red Hat employees

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“The ambassadors have been doing a wonderful job within the downtown area. I sat out on my lunch break and observed a young lady pleasantly picking up trash and a young man patrolling the streets, both walking by and politely speaking to individuals as they worked. Their presence gave a feeling of safety and comfort within the community.”

– MS. SOPHIA A. LINDO

Ambassadors performed 4,530 hospitality assists including giving directions and dining recommendations and helping individuals find their cars, creating a friendly urban environment

CLEAN + SAFE AMBASSADOR IMPACT

98,345

equals the weight of about

2 fire trucks

pounds of trash removed

1,284

motorist assists

2,976 hours

patrolling parking decks seven days a week

1,554

total safety escorts in 2015

56.5 hours removing graffiti and weeds

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A PROSPEROUS DOWNTOWN A PROSPEROUS DOWNTOWN WILL POSSESS ACTIVE STOREFRONTS BOTH DURING THE DAY AND INTO THE EVENING. In partnership with the City of Raleigh’s Economic Development Office and Planning Department, our economic development staff works with retail brokers and landlords to recruit new stores downtown. These diverse businesses make a direct economic impact by increasing tax revenues and creating employment opportunities, which fosters an urban environment with a strong retail climate and amenity pool that attracts more companies, investors, and residents to downtown.

29 street-level businesses opened in 2015, a net gain of 13 new stores

DRA RETAIL INITIATIVE: RETAIL GRANT

DRA created a Retail Up-Fit Grant for retailers in downtown Raleigh with the goal of creating an incentive to attract new retail businesses or aid in the expansion of existing retail. DRA’s grant provides financial assistance for renovations, improvements, and build-outs of existing spaces for downtown retail. Briggs Hardware and Unleashed, the Cat and Dog Store were the first to receive the grant, while Port of Raleigh, Gypsy Jule, and Retro Modern Furnishings also received grants in the second round of awards.

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© Carolyn Scott

Photo Courtesy of Port of Raleigh

NEW BUSINESS OPENINGS

8 new soft goods retailers opened in the downtown area House of Swank Unleashed, the Cat and Dog Store Briggs Devolve Moto Port of Raleigh Gypsy Jule Holder Goods and Crafts Gather

OTHER PROMINENT ADDITIONS INCLUDED: Death and Taxes Standard Foods Taverna Agora Raleigh Beer Garden Carolina Ale House Treat (DRA played a prominent role in helping the business open)

DRA INITIATIVE: #DTRetail In summer of 2015, DRA started a #DTRetail hashtag to promote our downtown retailers and make a quick and easy way for social media users to see a broad range of stores and specials available in downtown. This hashtag has been used by Runologie, Nuovonivo, Deco Raleigh, Raleigh Wine Shop, Briggs Hardware, and others for highlighting downtown Raleigh retail.

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TAKING FLIGHT STARTING THE ENGINE

relationship with DRA. DRA’s Planning and Development Manager, Bill King, knew of Pam’s ongoing desire to bring unique ideas to downtown. Bill presented Pam with the idea of a holiday pop-up store in a vacant Martin Street storefront.

Pam accepted the challenge with the intent the pop-up store by the same name would help fund Flight.

Pam Blondin believes in Raleigh, loves being downtown, and selflessly shares that enthusiasm with her community. Pam launched Deco Raleigh—an eclectic shop embracing all things local, artistic, and colorful—in November 2012 with a mission to build partnerships in the community. She has done that and more.

Working with landlord LM Restaurants, Bill sought approval to convert the vacant space to a pop-up store venue. LM Restaurants, eager to brighten the empty storefront, became a project partner and offered the space for a reasonable rate.

The project was ready to fly.

With the goal of empowering the public to be creative, Pam and Jedidiah Gant, editor of New Raleigh and founder of the Raleigh Murals Project, teamed with Sarah Powers of the Visual Arts Exchange (VAE) to initiate a small nonprofit named Flight.

The citizen-funded nonprofit seeks to propel original urban spaces by offering grants to artists.

Bill had birthed the idea and facilitated securing the space.

Pam then created a team of high achievers to help with takeoff.

She and Jessie Williams, owner of Edge of Urge, curated the merchandise. Julie Schmidt, owner of yellowDog : creative, delivered branding. Jedidiah headed up communications. It was a true team effort.

TAKING OFF Pam’s passion for all things downtown Raleigh fortified her

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According to Pam, preparing the space was a total blur due to a quick deadline to launch. Pam’s team used string to accent the storefront windows and cardboard boxes to display the goods, highlighting the temporary nature of the store. The

playful décor and engaging merchandise transformed a vacant space into a vibrant gathering place.

Bill promoted the store by contacting local TV media, delivering a strong social media push, and disseminating a press release to local media outlets. Apparently, word about Flight, the pop-up shop, quickly spread. Opening day surpassed the retailer’s expectations as community members quickly embraced the store’s concept.

The project was a complete success. First, the store generated money for Flight. Secondly, a vacant space was activated, and new community relationships were forged with neighboring Mecca, The Square Rabbit, and Bittersweet. Lastly, the popup shop success proved there is ample room for diverse downtown retail to flourish.

SAFE LANDING Flight, the pop-up shop, developed a new community, invigorated a dormant space, and turned a healthy profit. Pam reported the store raised $6,500+ for the Flight fund. This particular flight has landed, but its story created a buzz in the

downtown community about other pop-up possibilities.

DRA understands the value of the pop-up store model. “Popup stores are useful as incubators and laboratories of new retail concepts,” says DRA’s Bill King, “as well as helping activate empty storefronts, which add to the street-level vitality of a downtown.” Bill’s active facilitation of this project ensured all involved parties worked cooperatively and the pop-up shop moved from vision to reality.

Both DRA and Pam realize economic development happens on many levels. Pam praises DRA, noting how significant their partnership is on a micro level. She says, “This project was an excellent role for DRA, and it was well-executed. Big projects may capture headlines, but it is smaller projects that really energize the community on the street level.”

DRA’s mission is to continue the revitalization of Raleigh’s downtown by enhancing its quality of life and contributing to its economic success. The success of Flight, the pop-up shop, demonstrates our mission in action. With downtown’s innovative vibe and creative retailers like Pam Blondin, who knows where the next original space will pop up? No matter when and where, DRA is ready to help it launch.

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© Tierney Farrell

A VIBRANT DOWNTOWN

A VIBRANT DOWNTOWN MUST SHOWCASE A DIVERSE ARRAY OF DINING, NIGHTLIFE, AND RETAIL OPTIONS, PROVIDING SOMETHING TO DO AT ANYTIME OF THE DAY OR NIGHT. DRA strives to bring more business to our merchants through strategic merchant programs.

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Nightlife venues are active on the new Raleigh MIX website, posting updated specials and events

Restaurants participated in the 2015 Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week, the highest in the program’s history

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Galleries, museums, retailers, bars and restaurants participate in First Friday each month

Retailers participate in the Shop Downtown Raleigh, positioning downtown as a shopping destination

THE RALEIGH MIX “The Raleigh MIX has created an important space for local venues to advertise their specials, events, and features in one convenient online site. It has provided me with an effective, easy to use tool to promote my business.”

DRA transformed the Raleigh MIX from a twonight-only event to a year-long program that aims to bring crowds to downtown’s growing nightlife scene on a consistent basis.

In order to bring business to bars and clubs regularly, DRA designed and launched a brand new website in July 2015

- STEVEN FEINBERG, MOSAIC

as a central hub for all downtown Raleigh nightlife. The responsive mobile-friendly site (www.TheRaleighMix.com) allows merchants to submit specials and events to the site all year long. This user-generated content allows nightlife enthusiasts to see up-do-date deals, shows, and other events on a daily basis. As a result, venues have a simple way to market their business to a targeted audience at no cost.

“First Friday is an awesome opportunity for the COR Museum to reach out to the community. Consistently, the First Friday events are our highest attended event each month. We align our exhibit openings, programs, and events with First Fridays to ensure visitors have a fun and enjoyable visit to downtown Raleigh. We love First Fridays!”

– ERNEST DOLLAR, CITY OF RALEIGH MUSEUM

FIRST FRIDAY ART GALLERY WALK First Friday draws over 15,000 people downtown on a monthly basis for the self-guided tour of Raleigh’s finest galleries, studios, museums, alternative art venues, bars, and restaurants.

DRA designed and launched a brand new First Friday website (www.FirstFridayRaleigh.com) in December 2014 and saw a massive increase in users during the event throughout 2015 due to the site’s responsive interface.

Whereas 38% of users view the site on a mobile device two weeks prior the event, 83% of users view the site on their

mobile devices during the event. In an effort to make the website even more user-friendly for patrons and venues alike, we added a specials section and created a way to sort events by category in Fall 2015. In addition to maintaining strong partnerships with the media, we also launched a multimedia marketing campaign using printed brochures, newspaper ads, posters, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to push the event’s unique hashtag (#TGIFFR) and the new site. The campaign resulted in higher patron engagement on social media: Facebook saw a 39% increase in likes while the new Instagram account grew to over 1,000 followers.

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SHUCKERS’ SUCCESS: HOOK, LINE & SINKER

Amy and Kevin Marksberry started out as skeptics. But the owners of Shuckers Oyster Bar & Grill on Glenwood Avenue took the cue of their fellow restaurateurs in downtown Raleigh and plunged into DRA’s Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week, not exactly sure what to expect. They were pleasantly surprised.

THE HOOK Each year, Triangle foodies and non-foodies alike salivate over this wildly successful event. The craving is legitimate.

Downtown Raleigh delivers wide-ranging restaurant variety, catering to a multitude of tastes and styles.

DRA celebrated its seventh annual Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week on August 17-23, 2015. Taking the lead of downtown restaurateurs, DRA energized the 2015 event by adding $5 and $10 lunch specials and a DIY progressive dinner option, complementing the original $20 and $30 dinner specials. A record-breaking 53 restaurants participated, with 27 of those being first-time participants, including Shuckers. Restaurants offered a total of 87 menus, drastically increasing participant engagement. In 2015, DRA even gave participants the ability to submit menus to the dedicated Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week website (www.dinedowntownraleigh.com), making participation easier than ever for restaurants.

One of the event’s goals is to encourage more patron discovery of reputable downtown restaurants. To benefit participating restaurants, the DRA team uses multiple promotional methods, including a dedicated website. From direct mailing, rack cards, posters and ads to social media, email blasts and media coverage, DRA positions this event to exceed expectations.

According to the Marksberry team, it did just that.

REELING IT IN Shuckers is relatively new to the burgeoning downtown Raleigh restaurant scene, opening late 2014. The locallyowned restaurant serves fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks, and other delectable house-made fare.

At first, Amy was doubtful about restaurant week turnout, having participated in similar events that didn’t hit the mark.

“But after hearing from other local restaurants, we knew [participation] was a no-brainer.” Amy says, “Since marketing a new restaurant is so tough and expensive, [this] was a great opportunity to get customers in the door for the first time.”

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And the customers did come.

Shuckers’ strategy was, in Kevin’s words, “to go big.” The restaurant delivered great options by pairing seafood and non-seafood dishes. The strategy worked. Shuckers more than doubled their sales during the event, an increase of 126% in sales over the prior week. In a post-event email complimenting DRA, Amy writes, “I have never done any marketing that even comes close to the success of this restaurant week.” DRA was delighted to receive firsthand feedback that the event met its goals.

Shuckers more than doubled their sales during the event, an increase of 126% in sales over the prior week.

Shuckers’ relationship with DRA began when the restaurant opened in 2014. Amy says, “The DRA team has a true sense of partnership and cares about the success of your business.”

Concerning Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week specifically, she noted the DRA team members communicated effectively and respected the restaurant’s time and schedule.

THE BIG CATCH Amy, Kevin, and their crew at Shuckers look forward to reeling in the success of next year’s restaurant week. Excited about future DRA events, Amy says, “I appreciate all of the effort that went into this promotion, and to say that I look forward to the next one is a huge understatement.”

But there’s no understating the success the restaurant experienced during the 2015 promotion, turning Shuckers’ owners Amy and Kevin Marksberry from skeptics to believers.

DRA’s mission is to continue the revitalization of Raleigh’s downtown by enhancing its quality of life and contributing to its economic success. Restaurant week enhances patrons’ lives by delivering unique culinary experiences while simultaneously contributing to the economic success of the participating restaurants.

DRA looks forward to serving up future tasty events in support of the downtown Raleigh community.

“Bittersweet really enjoyed being part of Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week because it provided us an opportunity to expose the food-loving public to what we do best: pairing delicious cocktails with decadent housemade desserts. We created cocktail and dessert pairings—like our S’mores Sundae with a Bittersweet Manhattan—to show guests the delightful experience of food and beverage complementing and indeed enhancing each other...It’s a win for both the bar and the customer.”

– KIM HAMMER. BITTERSWEET

Photo Courtesy of Shuckers

SHOP DOWNTOWN RALEIGH DOWN TOWN

Boasting a variety of unique and local retail options, downtown is a shopping destination. DRA continues to brand downtown in that light through the Shop Downtown Raleigh merchant program. New in 2015, we added additional functionality to our dedicated Shop Downtown website (www.ShopDowntownRaleigh.com), allowing merchants to submit deals and specials.

In summer of 2015, DRA started a #DTRetail hashtag to promote our downtown retailers and create a quick and easy way for social media users to see a broad range of stores and specials available in downtown. To facilitate a more user-friendly experience on www.YouRHere.com, we re-organized the retail section (called #DTRetail) of the site and added statistics to help recruit more retail to the heart of our city.

In partnership with the national “Shop Small” campaign, DRA encouraged patrons to support downtown’s local businesses the Saturday after Thanksgiving by distributing marketing supplies, using our social media channels to gain exposure, and sending dedicated email blasts.

“Being part of the Shop Downtown community in my first year of business has been a huge help in my success and growth. The handson support with events like Shop Small Saturday has been top notch.”

- JESSIE CONNOR, RAMBLE SUPPLY CO.

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A MEMORABLE DOWNTOWN A MEMORABLE DOWNTOWN HOSTS MANY EVENTS FOR VISITORS. We created memorable experiences through our diverse array of outdoor events. With corporate sponsorships and community partnerships, we attracted hundreds of thousands of people to downtown.

DRA outdoor events activated public space, filling the streets with over 170,000 people in 2015.

Our signature outdoor events—the Raleigh Downtown Farmers Market, the Downtown Raleigh Movie Series, Raleigh Winterfest and the outdoor ice rink—each have a unique purpose, providing fun and enjoyment for various types of visitors. Raleigh Winterfest is a family friendly-event that ushers in the winter season with an outdoor ice rink and the mayor’s tree lighting celebration. The Raleigh Downtown Farmers Market serves as a quality of life amenity for downtown’s 40,000 daytime workers and downtown residents. The Downtown Raleigh Movie Series activated City Plaza during the summer evenings and attracted a young professional crowd with its ‘80s flashback theme in 2015.

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RALEIGH DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET The Raleigh Downtown Farmers Market brings workers, residents, and visitors together to enjoy the downtown community and encourage healthy living. In its sixth year of operation in City Plaza, the 2015 season ran 22 weeks long with 30-34 regular season vendors selling locally grown produce and artisan foods.

To spur economic development, the Market also serves as a business incubator for vendors before businesses have the means to open a brick and mortar location. New this year, we added space for a downtown retailer to showcase their specialty products one Wednesday each month.

In order to draw in a new customer base, we hosted four

specialty festivals highlighting different food items: an Opening Day Pig Pickin’, Cheese Please!, Honey Buzztival and Summer Feast. The annual grilled cheese competition at Cheese Please! proved once again to be a season favorite, attracting large crowds and new shoppers.

The Market also hosted guest vendors, nonprofits, and sponsors such as Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC. BCBSNC brought their mobile display to the Market on a monthly basis to interact with customers on site. Rex Healthcare hosted Wellness Wednesdays on the third Wednesday of each month, offering healthy recipe samples produced by their hospital cafeteria chef or providing recipe cards highlighting healthy food choices.

“2015 was my third straight year in the Downtown Farmers Market and I’m looking forward to many more. It’s enabled me to connect my business and my products with the business community in a personal way. Through the market, a lot of people have found out about my newest product, CITY CUPS, that provides meaningful work for people with special needs.

This connects me with potential individual buyers of the product.

The market itself is mostly a lunchtime crowd who work downtown. It gives everyone a chance to pick up some grocery items while getting lunch, listening to good live music, and enjoying a bustling community of, well, themselves! It's really a fun environment!”

- BILL LANDAHL, OAK CITY COFFEE ROASTERS

FARMERS MARKET IMPACT

34 $200,000+

spent on local agriculture and artisan food products at the Market

100,000+

customers shopped at the Market in 2015

Regular season market vendors showcased

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OUTDOOR ICE RINK From mid-November through the end of January, downtown hosts its version of Rockefeller Center at Raleigh’s only natural ice outdoor skating rink. DRA contracts with Polar Ice House to manage the rink’s operations while DRA provides marketing, branding, and promotional support.

In order to draw more skaters to the rink, DRA organized nightly programming, providing entertainment and specials for all ages. We hired a DJ company and developed theme

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nights, including evenings with popular ‘80s music. For those who like to find a deal, we organized buy one, get one free nights, college nights, and Hurricanes Pride evenings.

We also leveraged our large social media following to heavily market the rink on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter throughout the rink’s 10-week stay in downtown.

DOWNTOWN RALEIGH MOVIE SERIES The Downtown Raleigh Movie Series provided a unique summer outdoor experience six consecutive Fridays in May and June for the Triangle community. The 2015 theme, “Flashback Friday to the ‘80s,” catapulted the series to another level.

Thousands of Generation Xers, along with their families, gathered in City Plaza to view the popular ‘80s movies and dance to ‘80s music while waiting for the films to begin. To elevate the social experience, we hired a beer truck serving local craft beer on tap and crowd-pleasing food trucks, most of whom completely sold out of food each night. The movie series activates City Plaza, jump starts the summer season, and invites the public to see great flicks on the big screen for free.

Last year’s series was very successful for us, and we sold out of our homemade ice cream most nights. I am looking forward to the 2016 DRA movie series!”

-ANDIA XOURIS, THE FREEZING POINT

MOVIE SERIES IMPACT 96.5% Customer Satisfaction

$0 18,000 Movie-Goers Attended the Event

2015 Movie Lineup

Cost to Attend

May 22

Ghostbusters

May 29

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

June 5

The Goonies

June 12

Back to the Future

June 19

Karate Kid

June 26

Full Frame Documentary

11 Different Vendors Sold Food + Beverages on the 6 Movie Nights

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+

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WINTER + RALEIGH = WINTERFEST YOU R F ESTIVE

If there is one thing DRA has learned, it’s that collaboration is essential to the success of any large-scale event. In fact, building community relationships makes great things happen.

an interactive, pop-up studio to the center of City Plaza.

Attendees had photos taken in the studio, interacted with station talent, and received ABC11 giveaways. The mobile studio drew participants of all ages.

DRA and ABC11’s partnership for Ipreo Raleigh Winterfest is certain proof of these claims. Raleigh Winterfest, an annual, family-friendly event in downtown Raleigh, offers a variety of entertainment, activities, arts, food, and beverages.

Adam Frary, ABC11’s Director of Creative Services and Local Programming, sees Winterfest as the “culmination of the years’ worth of downtown events that shares both the spirit of downtown Raleigh and of winter at the same time.”

Each year, DRA and ABC11 work together to promote the winter festival and ensure the event meets its goals of bringing people together and focusing on downtown Raleigh’s lively culture.

According to Frary, ABC11 came up with the pop-up studio idea to take the ABC11 Eyewitness News experience to the street level, to join the growing pop-up atmosphere in downtown, and to create a social experience with the local news. Frary says, “I was amazed at the 3- to 4-year olds as well as the 90-year-olds who had never been on green screen and thought it was super cool.” ABC11 strived to do something more interactive, and that plan paid off.

DRA reciprocated ABC11’s support of Winterfest by preevent promotion of its live show. Also, DRA included ABC11’s logo on multiple promotional materials—from Winterfest and Ice Rink posters and flyers to email blasts, social media posts, and the event stage banner. DRA also accommodated ABC11’s talent, getting them on-site and on-stage with ease.

THE BIG EVENT Hosted by DRA in partnership with the City of Raleigh, Raleigh Winterfest started in 2009 with the Mayor’s Official Tree Lighting Ceremony as the main event. In addition to showcasing Raleigh’s signature outdoor ice skating rink, Winterfest includes other favorites like the Gingerbread House Competition and Santa’s Village.

Sunny skies and moderate temperatures opened the 2015 Winterfest on Saturday, December 5, setting the stage for a successful event. The perfect festival weather complemented the selection of activities, music, food, and beverages.

The Carousel, Ferris wheel and newly added Super Slide attracted young and old. Rock n’ roll bands Nuclear Honey and American Aquarium entertained the evening crowds.

Pho Nomenal Dumpling Truck and D’Burritos, among others, fed the hungry festival goers. These factors teamed with positive sponsorship relations and ABC11’s media coverage created what might have been DRA’s most successful Winterfest to date.

ABC11 has played an active role in Winterfest’s success. A sponsor since conception, ABC11 delivered promotional support and, in 2015, produced a live, 30-minute broadcast of the Mayor’s Official Tree Lighting Ceremony, increasing event media coverage and viewership. ABC11 brought

HIGH FIVES ALL AROUND It’s apparent the ABC11 and DRA rapport is a win-win for both parties and, most importantly, the Winterfest attendees. ABC11’s media coverage was essential in not only drawing nearly 20,000 people to the 2015 event, but also capturing thousands of TV viewers as well. DRA’s healthy partnership with ABC11 demonstrates the strength of its ongoing, local media connections.

Having worked in many markets, Frary states, “DRA is the most buttoned-up, connected team for any downtown that I have ever seen.” When first meeting DRA CEO David Diaz, Frary remembers Diaz opening the meeting by saying, “Let’s define what success looks like.” Frary was immediately impressed with Diaz’s approach; he says, “David has a high bar. He has a game plan.”

DRA’s mission is to continue the revitalization of Raleigh’s downtown by enhancing its quality of life and contributing to its economic success. Family-focused annual events enrich community members’ lives, and strong media relations lead to the promotion of downtown Raleigh, impacting its economic success. With its mission in mind, DRA is ready to light up even more community events.

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A CONNECTED DOWNTOWN A CONNECTED DOWNTOWN IS ONE IN WHICH INDIVIDUALS AND COMPANIES FROM THE GOVERNMENT, THE PRIVATE SECTOR, AND NONPROFITS WORK TOGETHER TOWARDS A COMMON GOAL. The revitalization over the last 20 years proves that Raleigh’s stakeholders do indeed collaborate for the benefit of the city. DRA aims to bring these groups together, whether it be a small meeting, a large corporate event, or providing strategic resources to encourage growth in our downtown. We also provide leadership in planning for downtown’s future. DRA worked very closely with the City of Raleigh in 2015 to raise funds and provide recommendations for the newest Downtown Plan.

MEMBERSHIP Our membership program brings executives, business owners, government officials, nonprofit partners, residents, students and downtown supporters together. These supporters become DRA members to associate themselves with a reputable organization that prides itself on its professionalism and strong work ethic. Members support the vision of a successful and growing downtown that will offer a wide array of business development opportunities, including DRA marketing, the ability to participate in our successful merchant programs, and discounted rates to DRA networking events. New in 2015, DRA began hosting monthly Second Tuesday events as an after hours networking opportunity and membership drive.

Over 1,500 stakeholders and members support DRA’s Municipal Services District.

REPORTS + RESOURCES As the thought leader and market expert in all things downtown, we produce customized reports to update the local community on downtown’s growth and opportunities. Our reports provide a comprehensive collection of data, trends, and analysis. These statistics include information on the office, residential, and retail

markets, highlighting trends to encourage more downtown development. The reports garner significant press attention, which results in DRA promoting downtown in several media outlets, including The News & Observer, the Triangle Business Journal and local television stations.

ANNUAL REPORT, DRA IMPACT To keep our stakeholders updated, this annual report provides a comprehensive overview and recognizes our mission’s impact on downtown revitalization.

STATE OF DOWNTOWN RALEIGH This 80+ page book shows the market trends impacting the economy of downtown, including demographics, data, and future projections. The report is a useful guide for investors and the community to learn about the growth and success of downtown.

QUARTERLY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT REPORT This report provides a quarterly update on downtown’s progress as well as enonomic metrics, new openings, tax revenue, and trends. It also provides an overview on the organization’s partnership with the city as it relates to retail recruitment.

22 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

© Tierney Farrell

ANNUAL MEETING AND DOWNTOWN ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS CEREMONY: Our premier event provides an update on DRA’s accomplishments and recognizes the contributions of individuals, businesses, and organizations that are making downtown Raleigh a vibrant urban core.

Attendees are inspired and educated about key topics relevant to downtown’s growth and revitalization. · Over 1,000 downtown advocates and prominent business leaders attended the 2015 event.

LADIES LUNCH DOWNTOWN: The event’s primary goal is to promote and support female leaders in downtown Raleigh who are enhancing downtown’s quality of life and economic success. The event provides a wonderful networking opportunity for women. In 2015, we hosted a panel of five successful women in engineering and architecture, a traditionally male-dominated field, at the historic Merrimon-Wynne House. · Over 250 downtown advocates attended the 2015 event.

© Carolyn Scott

© Tuf Shot Photography

© Shaun King

DRA hosts monthly networking events for members and downtowners to stay informed about downtown and DRA updates, build and develop relationships, and connect with staff.

STATE OF DOWNTOWN RALEIGH: Each year, this event provides a comprehensive market analysis of Raleigh’s Municipal Services District (MSD) for the purpose of informing and exploring new partnerships with the investor and real estate community. This is the premier event for brokers, and economic developers whose clients would benefit from learning more about Raleigh’s MSD. · O ver 500 downtown advocates attended the 2015 event.

A CONNECTED DOWNTOWN | 23

© Geoff Brown

A COLLABORATIVE DOWNTOWN A COLLABORATIVE DOWNTOWN RECOGNIZES THAT NO SINGLE PERSON OR ORGANIZATION CAN REVITALIZE A DOWNTOWN or sustain its success; it takes a team effort. We strive to spread our reach by co-branding with other groups, promoting downtown events, and allocating resources to empower others to impact downtown.

INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC ASSOCIATION FESTIVAL

GLENWOOD SOUTH NEIGHBORHOOD COLLABORATIVE

As a member of the community activation subcommittee for IBMA, DRA facilitated communication between the festival organizers and the downtown merchant community to drive engagement, participation, and interaction with attendees. After in-depth debriefing following a successful 2014 festival, DRA suggested a “town hall” style meeting for the downtown community prior to the event. We worked with event organizers to improve communication and collaboration before, during, and after the festival. Additionally, for the second consecutive year, DRA championed the Wide Open Late Night portion of the festival, which drew business to downtown’s live music venues after festival hours.

Two DRA staff members, David Diaz and Ashley Melville, currently hold seats on the GSNC Board of Directors, which acts as a liaison between Glenwood South businesses and residents. A DRA presence in this area fills a pivotal role as liaison to the City of Raleigh on behalf of Glenwood South.

DRA played an integral role in the organization’s “Project Warmth,” which distributed handmade scarves during the cold winter months and the Crosswalk Art project, described in detail on page 27. DRA also played important roles to support the organization’s other 2015 projects, including a soapbox derby, a poetry wall, and holiday decoration contests for businesses and residents.

24 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

© Cheryl Gottschall

DRA contributed over $22,000 in sponsorship to the city and other organizations to support like-minded groups.

R-LINE

SPONSORSHIP SUPPORT

Promoting the R-LINE, downtown’s free circulator, with the City of Raleigh, clearly illustrates how the adoption of our “You R Here” brand by partner organizations increases our visibility, establishes brand equity, and raises awareness about downtown amenities.

· Greater Raleigh Convention & Visitors Bureau (GRCVB) Annual Meeting · HQ Raleigh · Wide Open Late supporting Bittersweet, Deep South the Bar, Eschelon Experiences, King’s Barcade, Lincoln Theatre, LM Restaurants, and Tir na nOg

FREE DOWNTOWN PUBLIC WIFI DRA co-promotes downtown public WIFI with the City of Raleigh to enhance downtown’s image as a technologicallyinnovative destination. · C o-branded the free WIFI as “You R Connected” to further enhance the downtown Raleigh brand

STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS · A rts as Economic Development Focus Group · W ake County Transit Advisory Committee · B ike/Pedestrian Count Project

SUPPORT AND MARKETING FOR EVENTS + ORGANIZATIONS · · · · · · · ·

Activate Raleigh Artsplosure Couture for a Cause First Night Raleigh Hopscotch Music Festival Innovate Raleigh Junior League of Raleigh Shopping Spree!

Powerade State Games

A COLLABORATIVE DOWNTOWN | 25

© Stacey Simeone © Stacey Simeone

26 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

CREATING CROSSWALK ART “Art is a powerful force in our lives; creativity belongs to all of us.”

This statement from downtown resident and citizen artist Donna Belt demonstrates her passion for the creation of public art community projects, of which she has spearheaded many. In 2014, Donna initiated a project to paint three neighborhood crosswalks in Glenwood South. Her vision was this: artists would create the crosswalk designs, and the artists and community volunteers would paint the crosswalks together.

Donna lives and breathes the intersection of art and community. Perhaps, that’s why Donna and DRA made such a successful pairing.

CREATING SPACE To initiate her plan, Donna put out a call to artists in the local community to submit ideas for fun, whimsical, and neighborhood-inspired artwork for three prominent crosswalks on the heavily-trafficked Glenwood Avenue.

Donna, her co-leader Julia Mastropaolo, and a design selection committee, including City of Raleigh staff, made three final selections from the 19 designs submitted.

It was no small feat to assemble this project and to push it through to completion. In fact, it took several entities working collaboratively to give the project life. Donna teamed with Glenwood South Neighborhood Collaborative (GSNC), DRA, the Raleigh Arts Commission, and the Raleigh’s Public Works Department.

According to Donna, the City of Raleigh quickly embraced the concept of public art as part of the innovative vibe earning Raleigh national attention. Although the city government was on board, challenges came in the execution, the bureaucracy, and the risk involved in giving this vision wings. The biggest road bump arose when the city asked the GSNC to secure a $1,000,000 liability insurance policy for the project’s span.

Not a legal entity, the association was unable to secure a policy or to assume the expense.

GSNC, DRA became the partnering nonprofit organization contracting with the City of Raleigh, which enabled the installation to continue. In Donna’s words, “DRA stepped up and stepped in.” She said the organization communicated its belief and support of the project and therefore became a legal partner, fulfilling the legal agreements of working with the city.

After a year’s plus commitment to the project, Donna saw her vision come to life on Sunday, October 18, 2015. At 6 am, Donna, the artists who created the three crosswalk designs, and community volunteers stood side-by-side with DRA’s Ashley Melville and David Diaz, eager to create Raleigh’s first permanent public art installation on public streets.

The team revitalized three intersections in Glenwood South: Glenwood Avenue at Tucker, North, and Jones Streets. The installations depicted a Raleigh skyline, a swimmer in a striped bathing suit, and an old-fashioned movie reel countdown.

Through the collaboration of citizen groups, Raleigh government and DRA, the installation was a success.

DRA garnered considerable publicity for the project launch— from planning the press conference and inviting city council members to event logistics and artist acknowledgment.

Donna states, “[DRA] not only stepped in as contractual partners. They stepped in personally.”

CREATING COLLABORATION The positive, rippling effects of the crosswalk project are many. For one, artistic sidewalks brighten a once disregarded space, potentially connecting several passersby. Yet the most important effect may be the cooperation that occurred between multiple city entities—one visionary resident, 30+ community volunteers, Raleigh city staff, and DRA leadership.

Hopefully, these crosswalks have paved the way for others to collaborate on future public art.

DRA’s mission is to continue the revitalization of Raleigh’s downtown by enhancing its quality of life and contributing to its economic success. Donna Belt saw DRA’s mission in action.

Enabling the creation of unique public spaces contributes to revitalization efforts and beautifies the city, and creating pathways for citizens and city entities to work together leads to economic success.

CREATING COMMUNITY This is when DRA stepped up to the curb. Supporting

DRA will continue to create space, fortify community, and sustain collaboration in downtown Raleigh.

A COLLABORATIVE DOWNTOWN | 27

© Jordan Petersen 28 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

DOWNTOWN: FROM GREAT TO AMAZING Many people want to see downtown Raleigh thrive—from merchants, developers, and residents to restaurateurs, investors, and employees. The past decade has seen tremendous growth in downtown with lots more to come.

But with prosperity comes new challenges in how to balance rapid growth while maintaining a high quality downtown for all who work, live, and visit here.

Completed in 2015, the Raleigh Downtown Plan focuses on achievable action items to continue the already vibrant transformation of downtown Raleigh. The City of Raleigh and DRA partnered on creating the plan. The project was managed by the city’s Urban Design Center staff alongside an interdepartmental team that included the City Planning, Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources, and Public Works departments. A multi-disciplinary consultant team led by Sasaki Associates, along with HR&A Advisors, performed background studies and developed the major concepts in the plan. A City Council-appointed Downtown Plan Advisory Committee provided input and guidance throughout the process.

A STRONG FOUNDATION Over the past 10 years, downtown Raleigh has enjoyed an ongoing rejuvenation, partly due to the Livable Streets Downtown Plan finalized in 2003, which drove the reopening of Fayetteville Street and the construction of the Raleigh Convention Center and Red Hat Amphitheater. By 2013, the city needed a new plan to prioritize its steps for the next 10 years.

The Downtown Plan does just that. The plan crafts a 10-year vision of short-, mid-, and long-term goals for downtown Raleigh.

A GROUP EFFORT The plan describes the vision for downtown Raleigh and introduces Four Framework Themes that focus on creating a greener, more physically connected city—one committed to revitalization and redevelopment and united by networks and partnerships. The plan also emphasizes five Catalytic Project Areas where future change is planned: Gateway Center, North End, Moore Square, Nash Square/Raleigh Union Station, and Glenwood Green. The document closes with a detailed implementation plan.

DRA’s involvement with the Downtown Plan began before any actual planning started. According to Ken Bowers, AICP, City Planning Director, “DRA leadership laid the groundwork for a productive plan launch.” Early on, DRA advocated for the Downtown Plan, building excitement and energizing

stakeholders to participate in the public process of the plan’s development. Along with the city, DRA advertised public meetings, increased online engagement for the plan, and helped solicit input from downtown stakeholders.

DRA President David Diaz raised $250,000 from private donors to complement the city’s public investment in the plan. These funds allowed the city to hire Sasaki Associates, a Boston-based consulting firm, to draft the planning document. This contribution came from downtown business owners committed to a strong partnership with the City of Raleigh. Other DRA contributions included DRA’s Planning and Development Manager Bill King’s involvement in crafting retail recommendations in the implementation section of the plan. DRA, as a whole, worked directly with several city staff members throughout the process. It is not surprising that Bowers says the City of Raleigh had “a great working relationship” with DRA. Many actions of the Downtown Plan are underway, including Union Station, Dix Park, Moore Square renovations, and retail strategies. DRA has already begun work on the retail recommendations, including recruiting more stores and improving business planning assistance for retail prospects.

A BRIGHT FUTURE DRA feels confident downtown Raleigh is headed in the right direction and revels in being advocates for its transformation during this time in the city’s history. DRA also knows that implementing the vision takes cooperation and celebrates the collective effort that created the Downtown Plan. “Working on the plan was really helpful for DRA in deepening its collaboration with the city,” says King, “That collaboration will continue through plan implementation, which allows us to leverage the strengths of both DRA and the City of Raleigh in a more seamless way.”

The City of Raleigh agrees. Bowers has proposed periodic check-ins with the DRA board for progress review and feedback. The board can play an important role as it represents different stakeholders and interests in downtown Raleigh, such as merchants, investors, and residents.

DRA’s mission is to continue the revitalization of Raleigh’s downtown by enhancing its quality of life and contributing to its economic success. The Downtown Plan focuses on building a greener city with connected districts that invests in development and solidifies networks—a city like this impacts community well-being and growth, without a doubt. DRA will be there when the Downtown Plan’s vision turns into parks, lighted walkways, new or renovated buildings, and community partnerships.

A COLLABORATIVE DOWNTOWN | 29

AN ENGAGING DOWNTOWN AN ENGAGING DOWNTOWN IS ONE THAT CONSTANTLY COMMUNICATES THE GREAT THINGS HAPPENING IN THE CENTER CITY. We consistently engage our stakeholders, influencers, and the public to heighten visibility of our organization and recognize downtown as a vibrant and vital urban center. Our targeted marketing, strategic communications, and media relations continued to make a positive impact on the perception of downtown Raleigh.

30 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

900+

followers on the DRA LinkedIn page

9,000+

followers on DRA and First Friday Instagram

20,000+

likes on DRA, First Friday, and Farmers Market pages

50,000+

followers on DRA, First Friday, and Farmers Market feeds

The DRA events calendar averages over 34,000 pageviews per month, proving our site is THE best place to find downtown information.

WEBSITE IMPACT

DRA WEBSITES

DRA maintains a total of seven stand-alone websites that garnered over three million pageviews in 2015. New in 2015, we created a brand new Raleigh Mix website, giving downtown nightlife venues the space to upload events and specials all year long. The easy-to-navigate interface utilizes a responsive, mobile-friendly design to stay on point with current web design trends. Other featured additions to our websites include:

www.YouRHere.com www.DineDowntownRaleigh.com www.DowntownRaleighMovieSeries.com www.FirstFridayRaleigh.com

·A dding to and re-organizing the Retail section of the YouRHere.com website to help recruit more stores to our downtown · Adding

a Specials section to a mobile-friendly FirstFridayRaleigh.com, allowing users to find deals both before and during their First Friday adventure

www.RaleighEatLocal.com www.TheRaleighMix.com

·C reating space on our dedicated Shop Downtown Raleigh website where downtown retailers can post product specials to help position downtown as a shopping destination

www.RaleighWinterfest.com

MARKETING + COMMUNICATIONS IMPACT

COMMUNICATIONS CAMPAIGNS

Our marketing and communications department not only supports all DRA programs and events, it also brands the downtown as a whole and keeps stakeholders informed. Our targeted marketing campaigns implement a multimedia strategy by using professionally-designed posters, rack cards, and ads, various social media channels (real photos from our Instagram feeds are to the left), and leveraging strong partnerships with print, radio, and television media.

First Friday E-Newsletter

www.ShopDowntownRaleigh.com

Farmers Market E-Newsletter Second Tuesday Invites Member E-Newsletter

To increase communication with downtown residents, DRA created a quarterly mailer, The Downtown Insider, with news, events, and information especially pertinent to the downtown resident.

Member Update E-blasts Downtown Events E-Newsletter

In 2016, we’re excited to launch downtown Raleigh’s first-ever app for downtowners and visitors alike to plan their downtown experiences. The app includes street closure notifications, parking options, downtown deals, and much more.

Economic Development Reports Weekly Street Closure Notifications AN ENGAGING DOWNTOWN | 31

Š Carolyn Scott

A TRANSPARENT DOWNTOWN

A TRANSPARENT DOWNTOWN ORGANIZATION MUST BE BOTH FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC IN REGARDS TO SPENDING ITS FUNDS. We are a private nonprofit that has been entrusted to manage public funds, and we take that responsibility very seriously. As the revenues pie chart illustrates, we also receive a large portion of our funding from corporate sponsorship dollars for our programs and events.

In 1996, the Downtown Raleigh Alliance was created as a business-league nonprofit association for the purpose of revitalizing downtown. The by-laws state that DRA was created for the delivery of services funded by the municipal services district (property assessment): to attract investors, businesses and developers to downtown; to recruit retail and service businesses and promote and encourage development; to undertake activities to promote a positive image of downtown and to improve its marketability; and to maintain continuous and positive dialogue with government leaders. As you can see, our organization now fulfills its purpose more than ever through its core services and by virtue of our success and growth.

To further implement its mission, Raleigh Civic Ventures (RCV) was created in 1998 as a subsidiary of DRA to serve as a supporting organization and expand potential revenue sources by providing opportunities for charitable donations.

32 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

In 2008, the combined budget for both organizations was less than $1 million. At that time, our budget was significantly smaller than that of comparable downtown organizations operating in cities with similar populations to Raleigh. Seven years later, the combined $2.5 million budget provides a diverse array of revenue streams that leverage one another.

Multiple revenue streams reduce the risk to the organization by not relying heavily on any one source of revenue, which is a challenge for all nonprofits.

Annually, our finance committee develops the operating budgets that are approved by the board of directors.

The organization operates with a balanced budget and demonstrates fiscal responsibility by remaining debt free.

Langdon & Company LLP, an independent accounting firm, audited the combined financial statements of DRA and RCV for fiscal year ending June 2015 confirming sound financial standing for both organizations.

MUNICIPAL SERVICES DISTRICT

Pilot Mill

FRED FLETCHER

Mordecai

Cameron Park

Glenwood-Brooklyn

PEACE ST

GLENWOOD AVE

CAPITAL DISTRICT

N PERSON ST

DAWSON ST

MCDOWELL ST

GLENWOOD SOUTH DISTRICT

WILMINGTON ST

BOYLAN AVE

William Peace University

Oakwood

EDENTON ST

NC STATE CAPITOL

WEST ST

Campbell School of Law

NASH SQUARE

FAYETTEVILLE STREET DISTRICT

Hunter-Thompson S BLOODWORTH ST

W DAVIE ST

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT

Raleigh Convention Center

W SOUTH ST

OAKWOOD CEMETERY

MOORE SQUARE

FAYETTEVILLE ST

Boylan Heights

MOORE SQUARE DISTRICT

HARGETT ST

Performing Arts Center Shaw University CHAVIS PARK

South Park

2015-2016 COMBINED BUDGETED EXPENSES

2015-2016 COMBINED BUDGETED REVENUES

8% SP

4% MD

8% SB 38% SH

9% EP

21% CS

50% PA

10% RA

27% AL

25% FS

Safety, Hospitality + Clean (SH)

Property Assessment (PA)

Advocacy + Leadership (AL)

Fee for Service (FS)

Retail Attraction + Merchant Promotions (RA)

Corporate Sponsorships (CS)

Events Production (EP)

Member Dues (MD)

Strategic Branding + Community Communications (SB) Strategic Partnerships + Stakeholder Engagement (SP) A TRANSPARENT DOWNTOWN | 33

BOARD + STAFF

OFFICERS + EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 2016 Jason Smith

The DRA board of directors and staff work as a team. The board provides leadership and sets the strategic direction for the organization. The staff implements the board’s direction on a day-to-day basis.

Chair 18 Seaboard Restaurant Jon Wilson Treasurer and Chair Elect Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.

JEAN CARROLL | Events Coordinator jeancarroll@downtownraleigh.org ROXANNE COFFEY | Office Manager roxannecoffey@downtownraleigh.org DAVID A. DIAZ | President + CEO daviddiaz@downtownraleigh.org KIMBERLEY JONES | Assistant to the President kimberleyjones@downtownraleigh.org BILL KING | Planning + Development Manager billking@downtownraleigh.org ASHLEY MELVILLE | Director of Business Development ashleymelville@downtownraleigh.org CRAIG REED | Events Manager craigreed@downtownraleigh.org STACEY SIMEONE | Marketing Director staceysimeone@downtownraleigh.org STEPHANIE WILSER | Finance Manager stephaniewilser@downtownraleigh.org

34 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

Rebecca Quinn-Wolf Immediate Past Chair PNC Sarah Powers Secretary Visual Art Exchange Joseph “Bo” Dempster, Jr. Legal Counsel Poyner Spruill Clymer Cease At-Large ClarkNexsen Sharon Moe At-Large North State Bank David A. Diaz (Ex-Officio) President + CEO Downtown Raleigh Alliance

BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2016 Mary-Ann Baldwin (Ex-Officio)

Ruffin Hall (Ex-Officio)

Josh Stein (Ex-Officio)

City of Raleigh

City of Raleigh

NC General Assembly

Jeff Bandini

Jim Hartmann (Ex-Officio)

Andrew Stewart

Parker Poe

Wake County

Empire Properties

Shelley Blake (Ex-Officio)

Kathy Higgins

Caroline F. Welch

NC Dept. of Transportation

BlueCross BlueShield of NC

ABC 11

Pam Blondin

Andy Holland

Deco Raleigh

SunTrust Bank

Marty Clayton

Chad T. Lefteris

Duke Energy

Rex Healthcare

Leon Cox

J. Rich Leonard

Sheraton Raleigh Hotel

Campbell University School of Law

Tashni Dubroy

D. O’Hara Macken

Shaw University

Ipreo

Sally Edwards

David Meeker

Marbles Kids Museum

Downtown Resident, West at North

Tim Giuliani (Ex-Officio)

Joe Meir

Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce

Blue Ridge Realty, Inc

Sue Glennon

Gregg Sandreuter

Greater Raleigh Chamber of

Hampton Inn & Suites Hotel at

Hamilton Merritt

Commerce

Nate Spilker

Anthony Tata

Citrix

NC Department of Transportation

THANK YOU TO OUR 2015 OUTGOING BOARD MEMBERS Ashley Christensen AC Restaurants Gaddis Faulcon Shaw University Jill Wells Heath Mulkey Engineering and Consultants Thomas S. Hill, III Highwoods Properties Harvey Schmitt

Glenwood South Neil Gray JDavis

BOARD + STAFF | 35

© Tierney Farrell

120 S Wilmington Street, Suite 103 • Raleigh, NC 27601 • www.YouRHere.com • info@downtownraleigh.org • 919.832.1231

36 | DOWNTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2015