DURHAM CULTURAL ROADMAP

A plan for growth from the roots of Durham’s arts, culture, and history.

The Roadmap in 30 Seconds

Durham has incredible festivals, artists, cultural organizations, and creative energy. But now the systems that support them need to be updated so our communities can grow.

The Durham Cultural Roadmap proposes a coordinated path to expand access, strengthen leadership, connect partners, and help Durham’s creative ecosystem grow without losing what makes it Durham.

balance assets

Align funding, programming, and opportunities with Durham’s diverse communities, geographically, economically, and artistically.

inspire evolution

Encourage innovation and sustainability through new models, multi-year funding, and lifelong arts learning.

cultivate leadership

Strengthen and support creative leaders at every level, from emerging artists to established organizations, ensuring long-term growth and capacity.

foster collaboration

Build partnerships that amplify Durham’s creative vibrancy, share resources, and connect industries, education, and audiences.

What We Heard

Durham was clear: creativity is one of the city’s greatest strengths, but the systems that support it need to be stronger, fairer, and easier to navigate.

Over 2+ years, we’ve heard you through surveys, focus groups, town halls, interviews, community events, and everyday conversations across the city and county.

The Roadmap turns that community input into a plan for what we’ve heard:

Artists need support to live, work, and thrive here.
Funding needs to be clearer and easier to navigate.
Culture should show up in more neighborhoods.
Young people need more creative pathways.
Durham’s history and cultural identity must be protected.
Arts and culture need stronger public leadership.

Get Involved

Attend the Public Presentation on August 17
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