Across the Triangle region, voters were asked to approve a series of bond measures totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. The proposed bonds covered a wide range of community needs, from education and public libraries to infrastructure improvements and affordable housing. While the specific outcomes varied, the overall results demonstrate the region's commitment to investing in its future.

Unlocking Vital Investments Across the Triangle

Durham's Connecting Bonds Boost Parks and Infrastructure

Durham residents overwhelmingly approved two bond measures totaling $200 million, with over 70% of voters supporting the initiatives. The parks bond, valued at $85 million, will fund upgrades to existing parks and the construction of a new water park. The $115 million streets and sidewalks bond will address a range of infrastructure projects, including road repairs, sidewalk expansions, and street paving. These "Connecting Durham" bonds were championed by city council members and garnered broad community support, reflecting the city's desire to enhance its public spaces and improve mobility.The timing of these bonds is particularly fortuitous, as Durham recently adopted new design standards for transportation infrastructure. These standards prioritize features like sidewalks and bike lanes, aligning with the community's call for more equitable and accessible mobility options. The bonds' passage ensures that these improvements can be swiftly implemented, benefiting residents across the city.

Wake County Invests in Library Expansion and Modernization

Voters in Wake County approved a $142 million bond measure to fund the construction of new libraries, renovations of existing facilities, and the expansion of the Fuquay-Varina Community Library into a regional hub. This investment will come at a minimal cost to taxpayers, with an estimated annual increase of just $2.50 per $100,000 of assessed property value.The bond's impact will be felt across the county, as it will bring new community libraries to Rolesville and the Friendship area of Apex, while also replacing aging facilities in Athens Drive and Wendell. Additionally, the bond will support a new digital equity-focused facility and renovations to eight existing library locations. This comprehensive approach to library infrastructure will enhance access to knowledge and resources for residents throughout Wake County.

Cary Voters Reject Bonds for Affordable Housing and Parks

In a surprising turn of events, Cary voters rejected two bond measures proposed by the town. The $30 million affordable housing bond and the $560 million parks bond both failed, with the affordable housing measure losing by a narrow margin and the parks bond facing a wider defeat.If approved, the bonds would have resulted in a tax rate increase of 9 cents, with incremental hikes over the next several years. While the rejection of these measures may be a setback, it underscores the need for the town to engage more closely with its residents to understand their priorities and concerns. Moving forward, Cary must find alternative ways to address the pressing issues of affordable housing and park infrastructure, potentially through innovative financing strategies or collaborative partnerships.

Orange County Schools Secure Funding for Facility Improvements

Voters in Orange County approved a $300 million bond referendum to support facility upgrades for both the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (CHCCS) and Orange County Schools (OCS) systems. The bond will provide approximately $175 million to CHCCS and $125 million to OCS, earmarked for the replacement of several elementary and middle schools, as well as major renovations or additions.While the bond's approval rate was high, at around 68%, the funds will only cover a portion of the estimated $1 billion in improvements needed over the next 15 years to bring the districts' facilities up to modern standards. Additionally, some community members have expressed concerns about the implementation of recent staff-downsizing plans in the CHCCS system, highlighting the need for ongoing transparency and engagement with local stakeholders.

Chapel Hill Voters Approve Multifaceted Bond Measures

Across five separate referenda, Chapel Hill voters overwhelmingly approved a total of $44 million in bonds to address a range of community priorities. These include $15 million for affordable housing initiatives, $15 million for public facilities (such as fire station replacements), $7.5 million for streets and sidewalks, $4.5 million for parks and recreation, and $2 million for open space and greenways.The town's debt fund will allocate the funds without any tax increase for residents, demonstrating the community's commitment to investing in its future without overburdening taxpayers. These bond measures reflect Chapel Hill's focus on enhancing connectivity, equity, and the overall quality of life for its residents.