Raleigh, N.C. -As part of Governor Pat McCrory’s “Project Phoenix” initiative, the North Carolina Council of State has approved a partnership with the City of Raleigh to improve Moore Square in downtown Raleigh. While the State of North Carolina owns the property, the City of Raleigh is responsible for its upkeep. In recent years, the park has been in need of improvements, and today’s vote will start the process for that to happen.
“This is what Project Phoenix is all about,” said Governor McCrory. “Raleigh is our capital city, and the State of North Carolina has a responsibility to do its part to help downtown Raleigh be the quality city it should be.”

Raleigh can now move ahead with plans to construct restroom facilities and a food kiosk on the property located just blocks from the State Capitol Building and the Executive Mansion. The final plans are subject to approval by the state.

“I walk by Moore Square a lot when I take evening walks,” added Governor McCrory. “It is in dire need of some improvements. I appreciate Raleigh Mayor Nancy McFarlane and the Raleigh City Council working with us to make Moore Square a great place for all citizens to enjoy.”

Governor McCrory proposed Project Phoenix soon after entering office in 2013 when he noticed a number of state buildings were in disrepair or in bad need of renovations.

As part of the governor’s initiative, the state has listed properties on Blue Ridge Road and W. Peace Street in Raleigh for long term lease agreements. The state has also listed several historic Blount Street homes for sale.