DURHAM, N.C. -- City and business leaders held a "Connecting to Opportunity" summit this week to make sure neighborhoods stay affordable once the Durham-Orange light rail is complete.

The gathering took place at DPAC on Tuesday where leaders said they want to make sure the light rail doesn't displace long-time residents due to rising costs.

"You do see buildings begin to appear where the stations are being built," said Patrick McDonough with GoTriangle. "You tend to see apartments. You tend see buildings that are mixed use, with housing above and retail on the ground floor."

City leaders say they want room for affordable housing.

The proposed light rail is expected to be almost 18-miles long and will have 18 stops between Durham and Orange Counties. It could open as early as 2028.