Downtown Apex Streetscape Project Paused—Retailers Feeling the Impact

May 7, 2026 | News

Apex’s Salem Streetscape project has been temporarily paused due to electrical/design adjustments, extending disruption for downtown businesses.

Status:
• ~$4.7M streetscape investment
• Temporary construction pause
• One-way traffic still in place

Impact on tenants:
• 10–20% reported sales decline
• Reduced staffing levels
• Ongoing foot traffic disruption

CRE takeaway:
• Even short pauses in construction can materially impact street-level retail performance
• Communication and sequencing are critical in active downtown projects
• Long-term pedestrian upgrades often come with near-term revenue volatility

Translation: revitalization improves value—but timing drives pain points.

https://www.wral.com/news/local/apex-salem-streetscape-project-halted-april-2026

Dylan Cunningham

J Dylan Cunningham, CCIM is the founder of Oak Street Commercial Real Estate, LLC, a firm located in Apex, NC on a mission to help business owners and commercial real estate owners create long-term strategies that align with their objectives through real estate.

We believe in going beyond the transaction, taking a deep look at where you want to be in five, ten or even twenty years from now—and how we can help you get there with thoughtful, strategic decisions today.