Durham Freeway future | Study aims for community-based vision and reimagined look for Bull City highway [Video]

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) — When the Durham Freeway sprung up in the 1970s, some communities such as the Hayti community took a hit when the construction impacted longtime businesses, homes and places of worship.

“My father’s business was on Pettigrew Street, which was a thriving business district,” Anita Scott Neville said. “It dissolved a good part of the Hayti community. It dissolved all of the Pettigrew Street Business District, and it disbanded homes and families, just dispersed them from a neighborhood that was full of pride, full of positive impact on others.”

Now, community advocates are working to reconnect communities in central Durham, starting with an 18-month-long study that includes community feedback to help shape the vision for the future of the Durham Freeway.

Aidil Ortiz, who’s the community engagement specialist, said from March to June, they went out to the entire community across the 4.1-mile stretch of the …