akins station durham

News Durham Raleigh 1/5/2026

_______________________________________________________

at akins station

Downtown Durham Project Gets Final Approval
After months of heated public debate, the Durham City voted 5-2 to grant final approval for the controversial "City Center Plaza" project. The mixed-use development, slated for a long-vacant lot near the Durham Co-op Market, will include 200 residential units (20% designated as affordable), retail space, and a public park. Construction is set to begin in the fall.

NC Leaders Gather for Major Economic Forecast Forum

Ahead of the 24th Annual Economic Forecast Forum scheduled for next week at the Durham Sheraton Imperial, early reports suggest that North Carolina’s influential leaders are eyeing "job retention" as the primary theme for 2026. The forum will feature Tom Barkin, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, discussing the resilience of the local economy following the 2025 fiscal year.

RTP 3.0 Zoning Officially Takes Effect

As of January 1, 2026, the transformational RTP 3.0 zoning plan is officially active. This "science-city" initiative allows for the first-ever residential neighborhoods and mixed-use density s within Research Triangle Park. The goal is to evolve the 65-year-old research hub into a "live-work-play" environment to attract global R&D talent.

31st Annual "An Evening to Shine" Prepares for Launch

The arts community is buzzing as preparations begin for the annual showcase co-hosted by Durham Public Schools and the DPS Foundation. This year’s event, set to take place at DPAC, highlights the city's commitment to fostering young talent in theater and music, serving as a cornerstone for Durham’s cultural identity.

Job Market: Aspida Financial Commits to 1,000 New Durham Jobs

While the national job market remains steady, Durham received a massive boost this week as financial services firm Aspida confirmed plans to create 1,000 high-paying jobs in the area. With average salaries projected over $135,000, the expansion marks one of the most significant employment commitments in Durham County’s history.

Real Estate Market: Housing Inventory Hits 4-Month Supply

The 2026 housing forecast for Durham shows a shift toward a more balanced market. Recent data confirms that active listings in the Triangle have increased by over 24% compared to this time last year. With a 4-month supply of inventory now available, experts suggest the "spring rush" may be less frantic for buyers than in previous years.

Car Market: Raleigh-Durham Ranks as High-Demand EV Adoption Hub

Automotive analysts noted this week that the Triangle is seeing a surge in 2026 electric vehicle (EV) pre-orders. As more charging infrastructure is integrated into the new RTP 3.0 developments, local dealerships are reporting a shift in consumer preference toward mid-sized electric SUVs over traditional luxury sedans.

Infrastructure: Light Rail Revival Discussions Gain Traction

Public hearing notices for the Durham City Council on January 5 highlighted renewed community interest in the Durham-Orange Light Rail Transit (D-O LRT) project. Proponents argue the 17.1-mile line is essential to connect UNC Hospital and Duke University as the region’s population is projected to grow by 1.5% this year.

Education: AG Jeff Jackson Sues Over Federal School Funding

North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson made headlines this week by filing a lawsuit against the federal administration over a $50 million cut to North Carolina schools. Durham Public Schools, which recently extended its superintendent's contract, is among the districts most affected by the proposed budgetary shifts.

10 Upcoming Events in Durham (Jan – Mar 2026)

Event Name	Date	Venue
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child	Jan 6–11	DPAC
Dallas Stars vs. Carolina Hurricanes	Jan 6	Lenovo Center
Jason Isbell in Concert	Jan 14	DPAC
Rascal Flatts: Life Is A Highway Tour	Jan 15	Lenovo Center

NBA All-Star Viewing Party	Feb 13–15	Various DTLA Locations

Winter Jam 2026	Feb 27	Lenovo Center
Conan Gray: Wishbone World Tour	Mar 4	Lenovo Center
Bull City Food Experience	Mar 29	DPAC

Durham Tech and Biotech Giant Announce New Job Training Partnership

Durham Technical Community College and pharmaceutical leader Biogen announced a $2 million partnership to launch an accelerated biomanufacturing technician program. The initiative, funded by the company, aims to train 150 local residents over the next two years for high-demand, entry-level lab and production jobs at RTP firms, directly linking workforce development to industry needs.

Science: Duke AI Lab Unveils Tool That Predicts Protein Folding in Milliseconds
Researchers at Duke University's AI for Science Institute published a paper revealing "FoldSwift," a new artificial intelligence model that can predict the 3D structure of proteins from their amino acid sequence in milliseconds—thousands of times faster than existing tools. This breakthrough could dramatically accelerate drug discovery and the design of novel enzymes.

Arts: Mural Featuring Durham Jazz Legends Completed in the Brightleaf District
Local artists Simone Green and Marcus K. Jones put the final touches on a vibrant, three-story mural on West Main Street celebrating Durham's rich jazz history. The piece features portraits of legends like pianist Dr. Billy Taylor and modern players, becoming an instant landmark and photo destination in the historic district.

NC Fashion Week Announces Durham as 2024 Host City, Focusing on Sustainable Design

NC Fashion Week organizers announced that the flagship 2024 event will be held in Durham this September, shifting from Charlotte. The week will spotlight North Carolina's textile heritage and Durham's emerging "slow fashion" scene, with runway shows, panels on ethical manufacturing, and pop-ups at the American Tobacco Campus.

Report Shows Durham Leads Triangle in Tech Job Growth, Wages Still Lag National Average

A new report from the Triangle Tech Talent Initiative showed Durham led the region in the creation of new tech jobs in Q1 2024, with a 7% increase. However, the data also revealed that while demand is high, average salaries for mid-level software engineers in Durham remain 12% below the national average, posing a retention challenge.

Historic Hayti Home Prices Soar as Interest from Out-of-State Buyers Spikes

Real estate data for Q1 2024 shows the median sale price for a single-family home in the historic Hayti neighborhood increased by 34% year-over-year. Local realtors report a surge in interest from out-of-state buyers, raising concerns about cultural displacement and affordability for long-term residents in this historically Black community.

Local Auto Group Opens First Dedicated EV Service & Education Center in Downtown

"Queen City Auto Group" (based in Durham) opened a new Electric Vehicle Experience Center in the downtown Innovation District. The facility offers test drives, charging demonstrations, and a service garage specifically for EVs, responding to the 120% increase in EV registrations in Durham County over the past year.

Major Food Insecurity Initiative "Eat Well Durham" Launches with Grant from Duke Endowment

A coalition of non-profits, led by the Durham Farmers' Market and Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, launched "Eat Well Durham," a $1.5 million initiative funded by The Duke Endowment. The program will expand SNAP/EBT matching at markets, fund mobile produce stands in food deserts, and offer nutrition education classes citywide.

Upcoming Events in Durham, North Carolina

Durham Bulls vs. Nashville Sounds

When: Monday, April 15 - Thursday, April 18

Where: Durham Bulls Athletic Park (DBAP)

What: Cheer on the Bulls as they take on the Sounds in a mid-week home series.

Theater: The Play That Goes Wrong (Hilarious Comedy)

When: April 17 - May 5

Where: Paul Green Theatre at UNC Chapel Hill (Major cultural draw minutes from Durham)

What: The award-winning Broadway hit about a disastrous amateur theater production comes to the area, promising a night of non-stop laughter.

Music: Chamber Music at Duke: The Tesla Quartet

When: Friday, April 19, 8:00 PM

Where: Music Room, Duke University

What: The acclaimed Tesla Quartet performs a program of Haydn, Bartók, and a new work by a Duke composer-in-residence.

Festival: Durham Earth Day Festival 2024

When: Saturday, April 20, 12:00 - 5:00 PM

Where: Durham Central Park

What: A community celebration with environmental nonprofits, live music, electric vehicle displays, kids' activities, and workshops on sustainability and conservation.

Arts: First Friday Gallery Walk

When: Friday, May 3, 6:00 - 9:00 PM

Where: Various galleries in Downtown Durham & the Golden Belt Campus

What: A monthly, self-guided tour of Durham's vibrant art scene with open studios, new exhibitions, and refreshments.

Food & Drink: Bimbe Cultural Arts Festival

When: Saturday, April 20, 1:00 - 7:00 PM

Where: Durham Central Park

What: Durham's free, flagship celebration of African and African American culture, featuring live music, dance, drumming, vendors, and a children's village.

Duke Football Blue-White Spring Game

When: Saturday, April 20, Time TBA

Where: Wallace Wade Stadium

What: Get a first look at the 2024 Duke Blue Devils football team in their annual intrasquad spring scrimmage.

Film: Full Frame Documentary Film Festival

When: April 16 - 21

Where: Multiple downtown venues, including the Carolina Theatre

What: One of the nation's premier documentary festivals returns, featuring compelling non-fiction films, filmmaker Q&As, and special events.

Concert: Durham Symphony Orchestra: "Pops at the DPAC"

When: Sunday, April 21, 3:00 PM

Where: Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)

What: The Durham Symphony presents a lively pops concert of movie and Broadway themes, a perfect family-friendly afternoon.

Community: Bull City Food & Beer Experience

When: Saturday, April 27, 2:00 - 6:00 PM

Where: Diamond View Park at the American Tobacco Campus

What: A tasting event showcasing the best of Durham's renowned culinary and craft brewing scene, with proceeds supporting local food charities.

Deadly New Year’s Shooting in Durham

A New Year’s Day domestic-related shooting on Delbert Avenue left one man dead and two others injured, with police actively investigating the case and no suspects publicly identified yet.

Durham Tied Into Broader NC Job Growth Outlook

North Carolina economic officials say the state is poised for historic growth with 33,000 new jobs and a $23 billion impact in 2025, a trend that directly supports the Durham workforce and local businesses.

Novartis Expands Research Triangle Presence

Global drugmaker Novartis has begun work on a major expansion in the Research Triangle, with Durham among the hub locations for increased biotech research and manufacturing activity.

Durham’s Favorite Local Eateries Recognized in Best-of Awards

The Indy Week Best of the Triangle winners highlighted Durham dining and cultural spots — e.g., Ponysaurus brewery, Velvet Hippo, Isaac’s Bagels — reflecting thriving arts and food scenes.

Local Boutiques Score in Best-of Triangle Ranking

Local fashion and consignment shops such as Rumors and MODE Consignment Boutique were spotlighted among the region’s best places to shop, signaling Durham’s growing local style economy.

Strong Employment Opportunities Remain in Durham

Indeed job listings show hundreds of real estate and related employment opportunities in Durham — from sales consultants to leasing coordinators — underpinning a strong local job market.

Steady Sales, Slight Cooling in Housing Prices

Recent housing market data show Durham’s median home sale price around $410 K and homes selling in about 40 days, indicating solid demand though slightly cooler activity compared to last year.

Recent Crash Highlights Road Safety Concerns

A serious two-vehicle crash on Red Mill Road late in 2025 underscores ongoing concerns about traffic safety and vehicle incidents affecting Durham residents.

Durham Public Schools Plan 2026 Priorities

Durham educators and school leaders held a session to discuss key priorities for 2026, with a focus on academic outcomes and community engagement in science and STEM learning.

Immigration Enforcement Impacts Local Businesses

Business owners in Durham suburbs report shuttered kitchens and reduced staffing after Border Patrol activity spiked in the Triangle, affecting worker availability and community confidence.

Here’s a curated list of cultural, theater, and sports events happening in Durham over the next ~3 months — sports, plays, symphony, and more:

Durham Performing Arts Center Highlights — DPAC Schedule

Gregory Porter — Feb 7 (soul/jazz concert)

Diana Krall — Feb 11 (jazz performance)

Joe Russo’s Almost Dead — Feb 12 (rock concert)

David Foster & Katharine McPhee — Feb 13 (pop/classical fusion)

Dirty Dancing in Concert — Mar 3 (music + film experience)

Attack on Titan: Beyond the Walls — Tour — Mar 4 (anime-themed music event)

The Simon & Garfunkel Story — Mar 12 (live musical tribute)

Joe Bonamassa — Mar 13 (blues rock concert)

Additional Durham Events (Local Entertainment Scene)

• Les Trois Chats – Hot Club Jazz — Jan 10 (jazz night)

Environment: City Unveils Ambitious Plan to Convert Closed Landfill into Solar Farm

The City of Durham's Sustainability Office released a proposal to transform the closed Ellis Road Landfill into a 10-megawatt solar farm. The project, which would be one of the largest "brightfield" developments in the state, aims to generate clean energy for municipal buildings and create a new revenue stream for the city.

Transportation: "Bull City Connector" Free Bus Service to Expand Hours and Frequency

Following a successful pilot program, GoDurham and Duke University jointly announced a permanent expansion of the free Bull City Connector route. ing in June, the popular downtown-to-Duke route will run later into the evening and increase frequency to every 15 minutes on weekdays, enhancing connectivity for residents, employees, and visitors.

Agriculture & Food: Local Coffee Roaster Partners with Durham Co-op for Exclusive "Single-Origin" Bean

Durham's own Counter Culture Coffee has partnered with the Durham Co-op Market to launch an exclusive, limited-run single-origin coffee bean sourced from a women-owned cooperative in Guatemala. A portion of the proceeds will support the Co-op's "Food for All" subsidy program, linking local consumption with global impact.

Technology: American Tobacco Campus Selected as Test Site for Autonomous Delivery Robots

The historic American Tobacco Campus will serve as a public test site for a new fleet of autonomous sidewalk delivery robots. ing next month, the robots, operated by a North Carolina-based up, will deliver food and small retail items from campus businesses to employees and visitors within a defined geo-fenced area.

Arts & Culture: Hayti Heritage Center Receives Major Grant to Restore Historic Film Archive

The Hayti Heritage Center was awarded a $250,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities to digitally restore and catalog its rare archive of films documenting Black life, arts, and civil rights activism in Durham from the 1960s-1990s. The project will make these historic materials publicly accessible online.

Real Estate & Development: Adaptive Reuse Project to Transform Old Ice House into Artist Live-Work

Developers have filed plans to convert the long-vacant, historic Durham Ice House on Rigsbee Avenue into "The Makers' Keep," a complex featuring 30 affordable live-work studios for artists and craftspeople, alongside a ground-floor gallery and workshop space open to the public.

Sports Business: Durham Bulls Announce Major Upgrades to DBAP Sound System

The Durham Bulls unveiled a multi-year plan for significant fan experience upgrades at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park (DBAP). The first phase, to be completed this offseason, includes a state-of-the-art new sound system and a revamped main concourse with expanded local food and craft beverage options.

Infrastructure & Parks: Mud Creek Greenway Trail Extension Breaks Ground, Linking Neighborhoods to Downtown

The City's Parks and Recreation Department broke ground on a 1.5-mile extension of the Mud Creek Greenway. The new segment will create a continuous, protected pedestrian and bike trail from Northgate Park to the downtown Durham Station transit center, filling a critical gap in the city's greenway network.