Hillsborough Street is both a reflection and a glimpse into the future of our community. It is central to the culture and morale of NC State students and the surrounding community, as the businesses and events on Hillsborough Street act as an extension of our campus. 

Raleigh has consistently demonstrated significant growth and undeniable allure over the past several years. U.S. News ranked Raleigh No. 6 in both “Best Places to Live” and “Best Places to Retire” in their 2024-2025 report. 

However, with immense growth and development also comes higher risk of over-commercialization. A rapid increase in popularity means many large chain corporations will try to jump in and capitalize on the market. This isn’t always bad, but it is important to invite and protect the independent businesses that set our city apart.

Anil Gordon, NC State student body vice president, explained how finding ways to support the uniquities that bring depth and purpose to Hillsborough Street is one of his priorities.

“We could really capitalize on bringing more businesses to Hillsborough that provide that space and opportunity for students to enjoy things like live music and have a good sit-down meal that’s affordable,” Gordon said.

Gordon spoke about the Carreno-Gordon administration’s idea to compile a list that encompasses the various student discounts and venue agreements offered by businesses to compel students and student organizations to engage with them.

“Understanding what businesses provide me and which businesses are going to give me a good deal would be particularly helpful in deciding where to go,” Gordon said. “I think if we provide that resource to students for Hillsborough, it would be a great opportunity.”

But it’s not only about engagement. A large part of growing Hillsborough Street is about choosing to fund the kinds of businesses that support local entrepreneurs and cater to all members of the community.

“I see a lot of chain restaurants coming in and things like that,” Gordon said. “And it’s upsetting because I know there are a lot of great small businesses that want to come and would love the opportunity.”

Supporting the existing small businesses and encouraging the development of new ones largely relies on student impact. As the main consumers of Hillsborough Street’s businesses, our favorite places to study, organize fundraisers or take photos for social media have a very large impact on the market.

Live It Up! Hillsborough Street is an independent non-profit corporation focused on improving the community around Hillsborough Street. This includes capitalizing on their relationship with NC State and the impact that its students have.

Jeff Murison, the president and CEO of Live It Up! Hillsborough Street, said alongside their big picture pursuits, they also prioritize day-to-day goals like beautification and lending a helping hand.

“We provide a lot of services across a wide spectrum,” Murison said. “We have five ambassadors who are out on the street every day of the year, picking up trash and removing graffiti. They find students’ ID cards and get them back to them. They help jump start cars when their battery dies.” 

As for the shopping and dining on Hillsborough Street, Murison said there are no direct restrictions on the types of businesses that can fill vacancies. 

“In a traditional mall or shopping center, there’s a property manager that manages a tenant selection process to be able to pick what businesses fill vacant spots,” Murison said. “Along Hillsborough Street each property has its own owner and they get to make their own decisions.”

However, Live It Up! Hillsborough Street still works to influence the types of businesses that come to our community through publishing market segmentation reports which point to areas of oversaturation along with reports about students’ demands and interests.

“We publish these reports in hopes of educating decision makers and attracting entrepreneurs who want to fill these spots,” Murison said. “All we can do is coach. That’s why our partnership with the University is so important. It’s a connection that allows us to partner with a range of groups to provide activities that highlight those needs and fill those gaps.”

Students determine the future of Hillsborough Street. Get involved with the pursuit for growth by pushing for Student Government voices that reflect a desire for the positive development of our community and by shopping, posting and hosting at the businesses you love.