The City of Durham has opened voting for its latest round of participatory budgeting. Residents and students aged 13 and older can help decide how $2.4 million in public funds will be spent. Voting began on October 21, 2025, and will continue through November 30, 2025. This initiative is called PB Durham Cycle IV. It allows community members to choose which local projects receive funding.
This year, ten project proposals are on the ballot. These proposals were developed from ideas submitted by residents earlier in 2025. The projects include park repairs, playground installations, public art, digital access stations, and safety improvements. Examples include the renovation of Durham Skate Park for $1.2 million, a new ADA-compliant playground at Bethesda Park for $750,000, and a self-cleaning public restroom in downtown Durham for $350,000.
Voting is available online in both English and Spanish. This aims to make participation accessible to more people in the city. Carmen Ortiz from the City’s Community Partnerships and Engagement Department said participatory budgeting gives residents a direct role in shaping their neighborhoods…