Market + Exchange Plazas

Project Overview

Originally built in the 1960s, both plazas underwent extensive renovations and improvements to create a modern public space for pedestrians, small events, pop-up retail and outdoor markets. Improvements include open areas, installation of new concrete unit pavers, concrete paving, seat walls, plantings, a stormwater drainage system, electrical service, water service, an irrigation system, screen enclosures and shade structures.

The plazas are designed as a cohesive whole with a similar look and feel but also feature distinct elements that give each space a unique use. Market Plaza’s improvements allow for pop-up retail and Exchange Plaza’s improvements incorporate businesses and restaurants. Both provide increased visibility through the spaces with trimmed-back greenery and stainless steel overhead LED lighting suspended via aircraft cable.

Stakeholder involvement and pedestrian access were significant on this project — both plazas are flanked by stakeholders in One Exchange Plaza, 227 Fayetteville, and the First Citizens Bank building. These include six businesses on the ground floor facing the plazas. As general contractor, Holt Brothers Construction worked proactively with the City of Raleigh and all stakeholders to ensure accessibility during construction. Additional project challenges included shallow underground utilities and on-site stormwater mitigation.