Concord streetscape improvements along the Union Street corridor

Downtown Concord Streetscape Earns Statewide Main Street Design Award

The downtown streetscape transformation along Union Street in Concord, North Carolina has been recognized at the state level, earning a 2025 Award of Merit for Best Outdoor Space Improvement from the North Carolina Main Street & Rural Planning Center. The award was presented during the annual North Carolina Main Street Awards Ceremony on March 11, 2026, in New Bern, celebrating impactful downtown revitalization projects across North Carolina.

Thirteen Communities Recognized

Thirteen communities were recognized during the ceremony, which highlights projects that strengthen downtown districts through economic vitality, design, promotion, and organization. The awards were presented by leaders from the North Carolina Department of Commerce, including Chief Deputy Secretary Kenny Flowers, Assistant Secretary for Rural Economic Development Reginald Speight, and Director of the North Carolina Main Street & Rural Planning Center Liz Parham.

Downtown Concord Streetscape Project Transforms Union Street Corridor

The Union Street Streetscape Improvements project has significantly transformed a key corridor in downtown Concord. Identified as a catalytic project in the City’s downtown master plan, the improvements reimagined the corridor to prioritize pedestrian activity, enhance public gathering spaces, and support local businesses.

McGill partnered with the City of Concord throughout the design development and final design phases, preparing construction documents for bidding and contract negotiation. The project included a comprehensive redesign of Union Street from Killarney Avenue to just south of Corban Avenue.

The revitalized corridor features wider sidewalks, tree planters, updated street lighting, site furnishings, curb line modifications, and ADA-compliant crosswalks. To create more usable public space, the City removed much of the on-street parking, allowing sidewalks to expand and accommodate landscaping and public art elements.

In addition to the visible streetscape enhancements, the project also included major infrastructure improvements. McGill provided engineering design for roadway reconstruction, water main replacement, stormwater system upgrades, and electrical system improvements along the corridor.

McGill also designed a comprehensive electrical and lighting system that blends modern technology with the historic character of downtown Concord. The lighting enhances safety while highlighting the corridor’s landscaping, architecture, and public art, helping create an inviting destination for residents and visitors alike.

Completed with a ribbon cutting on May 3, 2025, the Union Street project demonstrates how thoughtful design and strategic investment can transform downtown spaces. The recognition from the North Carolina Main Street Awards highlights the impact of Concord’s revitalization efforts and the collaborative partnerships that helped bring their vision to life.

Congratulations to all of the communities receiving 2025 Award of Merit recognition.

View Concord Streetscape Lighting and Electrical Improvements Case Study

Watch Video About this Project from the NC Main Street Conference