RTP 3.0 paves the way for next-generation growth in Research Triangle Park

IASP member Research Triangle Park has reached a major milestone in its long-term transformation, with unanimous approval from the Durham County Board of Commissioners to amend the Park’s zoning district, aligning regulations across the Park and allowing the new zoning framework for the Park’s 7,000 acres to take effect on 1 January 2026.  

The approval advances RTP 3.0, a 50-year vision to guide smart, equitable and sustainable growth across one of the world’s most established research parks. The updated zoning provides greater flexibility for campus modernisation, enhanced R&D capabilities, and the addition of mixed-use and residential component. These changes are designed to strengthen RTP’s global competitiveness and ability to attract top talent and investment.  

“RTP 3.0 began as a long-term vision for what the Park could become,” said Scott Levitan, President and CEO of the Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina. “These updates give landowners the tools to modernise campuses, adapt to evolving workforce needs and support lasting growth for the entire region”. 

Public officials highlighted the historic nature of the decision and the multi-year, collaborative process behind it. Commissioners noted the plan’s alignment with local land-use priorities, including walkability, multimodal access and mixed-use innovation-focused development. 

RTP 3.0 introduces three new place types: Enhanced Corporate Campus, Residential Neighbourhood Development and Mixed-use Density Node, expanding the Park’s corporate campus model and enabling new public amenities, improved transport connectivity and on-site housing opportunities. 

The Research Triangle Foundation, which has worked with companies, landowners, universities and government partners since 2021 to shape this vision, will now move forward with recording updated covenants, adopting enhanced development standards and finalising design guidelines. RTP 3.0 development applications are expected to begin in mid-2026.