Some folks want to turn the building across the alley into a new restaurant and boutique hotel. Which is fine. However, they've applied to close this alley in order to construct a private, raised, outdoor dining area that, at it's highest, will create an almost nine foot retaining wall in the middle of the space. The current space was designed and constructed in the late 1960's at the same time the fantastically modern 315 E Chapel Hill St structure was built. It is one of the only designed pedestrian spaces in downtown Durham and contrary to many people's opinions, heavily used and enjoyed and a hot spot for downtown photographers, both amateur and professional. City Council must consider whether this closure is contrary to the public interest in making their decision at their October 7th (7PM) meeting. You can attend this public hearing and voice your opinion about the importance of saving this historic alley.
