When The Keith Corporation (TKC) embarked on the American Tobacco Campus redevelopment in Durham, North Carolina, we had a vision: to transform a forgotten relic of the past into a thriving centerpiece for the future. Nearly two decades later, this vision stands tall, not only as an iconic symbol of urban renewal but also as a shining example of environmental sustainability, innovative financing, and business attraction. With milestones like securing North Carolina’s first New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC), delivering the state’s first LEED-certified building, and now hosting major tech giants like Google and Apple, the American Tobacco Campus tells a story of firsts—one that we are incredibly proud to share.
Pioneering New Market Tax Credit Financing in North Carolina
TKC was the first developer in North Carolina to successfully secure and leverage New Markets Tax Credits, a federal program designed to spur revitalization in economically distressed communities. For us, this wasn’t just about finances; it was about crafting an impactful partnership between investors, community stakeholders, and policymakers. The NMTC funding helped us undertake a historic redevelopment project that revitalized an aging industrial site into a thriving mixed-use community—a transformation that catalyzed growth in downtown Durham and continues to echo far beyond its walls.
Sustainability Built In: North Carolina’s First LEED-Certified Building
Long before sustainability became a buzzword, TKC prioritized it as a cornerstone of our projects. At the American Tobacco Campus, we built the first building in North Carolina to achieve LEED certification—a landmark accomplishment that marked a new era for green construction in the state. Through adaptive reuse of historic structures, energy-efficient design elements, and sustainable materials, we created a model for how development can respect history and meet the needs of the future. Today, this environmental legacy remains part of the DNA of the campus.
A Magnet for World-Class Businesses: Google, Apple, and Beyond
The revitalized American Tobacco Campus has not only preserved Durham’s historic charm but also turned the area into a magnet for innovation. It’s home to dynamic office spaces, bustling restaurants, and state-of-the-art amenities. Most impressively, the campus now counts technology titans like Google and Apple among its tenants. Their presence underscores the power of thoughtful, community-focused development to attract the best and brightest. The campus has become not just a place to work, but a destination for creativity, collaboration, and progress.
More Than a Development: A Catalyst for Community
From the moment we first envisioned the American Tobacco Campus redevelopment, our mission extended beyond bricks and mortar. It was about building a vibrant, interconnected community. The site is now a hub for cultural events, a backdrop for local businesses, and a centerpiece of Durham’s downtown resurgence. By reimagining what was once an empty industrial site, we have brought new life, opportunities, and pride to the region.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the accomplishments of the American Tobacco Campus, it’s clear that this is more than a development—it’s a legacy project that illustrates The Keith Corporation’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community. From being the first to secure New Markets Tax Credits to hosting North Carolina’s first LEED-certified building and welcoming global leaders like Google and Apple, the campus has set new benchmarks for what’s possible in urban redevelopment.
At TKC, we don’t just build buildings—we build futures. The American Tobacco Campus is proof of the transformational power of doing so thoughtfully, boldly, and collaboratively.