Welcome to this week’s edition of the DoRaleigh Weekly News Flash — your go-to roundup of Raleigh news, events, development, and what’s happening across the Triangle.

In Development: North Hills Expansion Underway

Kane Realty has officially broken ground on The Strand, a 20-story mixed-use tower rising in North Hills, just steps from the Advance Auto Parts Tower. The project will include 362 residential units, 9,000 square feet of street-level retail, a speakeasy exclusive to penthouse residents, and a clubroom on the 18th floor. Move-ins are expected by summer 2027.

Farewell, Ruby Deluxe

After a vibrant 10-year run in downtown Raleigh, Ruby Deluxe has closed its doors for good. The queer-friendly nightclub will still host a final Pride Month edition of its beloved amateur drag show in June. (via Raleigh Magazine)

Weather Alert: Hurricane Season Starts Soon

Heads up: Hurricane season begins June 1. We’ve got a full prep guide to help you get storm-ready. The City of Raleigh is also offering tips and resources to help residents stay safe if severe weather hits.

Plus, Raleigh is handing out NOAA weather radios at select events:

May 17 at Southeast Raleigh YMCA June 28 at Green Road Park

Cannabis Confusion: Dispensaries Surge

Dispensaries are popping up across Raleigh — but marijuana remains illegal in NC. Thanks to a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived THC products are legal (and in high demand). With bipartisan regulation talks heating up, change may be on the way. (via Raleigh Magazine)

State Rankings: NC’s Stock is Rising

North Carolina has climbed to #5 for growth and #7 for best economy in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report. Overall, the state jumped six spots to land at #13, reflecting major gains in business climate, jobs, and quality of life.

Taking Off: New Flights from RDU

Breeze Airways is adding two more nonstop flights out of RDU:

Key West, FL – Starts Oct. 3 (Mon & Fri) Manchester, NH – Starts Nov. 6 (Thurs & Sun)

This brings Breeze’s total to 28 destinations served from Raleigh.

Retail Reimagined: Dick’s House of Sport Coming to Crabtree

The former Sears at Crabtree Valley Mall will soon become Dick’s House of Sport, an immersive store concept featuring climbing walls, batting cages, and interactive experiences. No opening date yet — but it’s part of a national rollout. (via Triangle Business Journal)

Community Spotlight: Wake County’s Rising Homelessness

Wake County’s latest count shows 1,258 people experiencing homelessness, a 27% increase from last year. The spike is partly due to improved tracking and outreach tools. While the number is concerning, officials say it provides more accurate data to support housing efforts.

Getting Around Durham: Meet the Bull Ride

Downtown Durham, Inc. has launched The Bull Ride, a free six-seat electric shuttle operating Thursdays through Saturdays. Riders (age 8+) can wave it down or call 919-682-BULL for service inside the Business Improvement District. (via INDY Week)

Tech Tidbit: AI Shopping Agents Are Here

Visa and Mastercard just dropped an AI agent that shops on your behalf. Forgetting the toilet paper? Covered. But can it appreciate a sunny stroll through Raleigh City Farm? That’s still up to you. (via TechCrunch)

Civic Moves: Toll on Capital Boulevard?

Raleigh City Council has endorsed a potential toll on Capital Boulevard (from I-540 to Wake Forest) to help fast-track its conversion into a six-lane expressway, a project that’s been delayed for over a decade. (via The News & Observer)

Coming Soon: Jaggers on Glenwood

Jaggers, a casual eatery from the folks behind Texas Roadhouse, is heading to 6711 Glenwood Ave., replacing Mami Nora’s. Expect $10-and-under burgers and chicken. The original building will be demolished and replaced — stay tuned for an opening date. (via Triangle Business Journal)

Weekend Plans & Celebrations

State of Beer Turns 10 Stop by Hillsborough Street this Sunday, May 18 (12–4 p.m.) for special brews, retro sandwiches, flash tattoos, and a photo booth to celebrate their 10-year anniversary. Lucky Tree’s New Location The beloved local coffee shop opens its Moore Square branch this Saturday, May 17, with free samples, live music, and collaborative art. Home Run Derby X at the DBAP August 9 brings MLB legends and local college stars to Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Don’t miss this high-energy event — join the waitlist now for ticket alerts.

Foodie Pick: Herons Makes National Brunch List

Cary’s Herons at The Umstead has been named one of the best brunch spots in the nation by OpenTable. From spring hot pot to crab cake Benedict, this Forbes Five-Star spot is elevating brunch to an art form. (via The News & Observer)

That’s a wrap for this week’s DoRaleigh News Flash.

Stay tuned and follow us for more updates, events, and headlines shaping life in the Triangle.