Don't Let Redeeming Development Group Pollute Lick Creek

Lick Creek is a vital, sensitive stream in Durham that already struggles with sediment pollution from development. When construction sites aren't careful, mud and dirt wash directly into the water, smothering fish and wildlife.

Sound Rivers fights tirelessly to keep this creek clean. But now, the Redeeming Development Group (RDG) is asking Durham City Council for a rezoning to build the Wake Olive Apartments without a real plan to protect our water during construction.

They asked for our trust and then abused it. The project was denied in 2024, in part due to concerns about water quality. To get their project approved, RDG met with Sound Rivers, promising to implement superior water protection methods that go beyond the minimum requirements.

At the Planning Commission hearing, they used our name and reputation as an environmental group to prove they were "collaborating" and convinced the Commission to vote yes, even though there are no meaningful protections to avoid sediment pollution during construction.

RDG used our name, then vanished. That's bad faith. The moment RDG got the Planning Commission's vote, they completely cut off all communication with Sound Rivers. No explanation. No follow-up. Just total silence.

Protecting water quality isn't complicated. Our request was simple, science-backed, and proven: Turbidity Sampling. This process, recommended by the EPA, samples the water flowing off a constructon site to ensure that it isn't polluting the creek. It's an easy, low-effort step for a developer but a massive safeguard for the environment. This is not included in the development proposal.

Tell Durham City Council: say no to bad actors! We urge the Durham City Council to oppose the Wake Oliver Apartments Rezoning (Z2400038). We must send a message: Durham deserves developers who meet a higher standard of integrity and environmental protection of our drinking water supplies. Contact your City Council member today at council@durhamnc.gov.