The Implications of Perceiving a Privately-Owned Property as Public Space

A Case Study of Weaver Street Market

By Kathryn Cunningham

In these turmoil times, we need to hold the things we love close to us. And we also need to hold them accountable. I love Weaver Street Market – its colorful chairs, proximity to good food and fun drinks, and overall mission. I am not alone in this feeling: Weaver Street Market’s lawn is a beloved gathering space in Carrboro.

It is because of this love and appreciation for the space that we must hold a critical lens toward it. Weaver Street Market, despite its community-owned business model, is located on private property. This creates inherent restrictions to engagement and access, and tensions in its use and function.

This digital zine aims to inform Carrboro residents of these restrictions and tensions by highlighting the space’s Open Space Policy. It discusses both the origin of these policies and their consequences. Being aware of this history helps us better understand our rights in the space and support advocacy for a true public space going forward.

Kathryn Cunningham is a second-year master’s student with the Department of City and Regional Planning whose interests include climate change adaptation, community development, and public space. She studied Environmental Studies at Williams College and before coming to graduate school, she was in the San Francisco Bay Area managing sustainability projects for a law school. When not in class, she enjoys reading, running, and checking out all of the many concert venues the Research Triangle has to offer.