Mixed-use community in SouthPark approved by city council

CHARLOTTE — The Charlotte City Council approved a major new development for a nine-acre site currently occupied by a condo complex.

Neighbors of the Trianon condo community told Channel 9 earlier this year that they were in favor of the 150,000-square-foot project even though their homes will be replaced by the development.

Dozens of Trianon neighbors all dressed in green spent President’s Day in the Government Center. They said the current conditions of their nearly 55-year-old homes have led them to this point.

“Unfortunately, our aging infrastructure creates both a physical and financial burden making it difficult for us to stay long term,” resident Ambriel Taylor said.

A developer called Related wants to build hundreds of apartments with retail and restaurants. The plans also call for townhomes and a pedestrian street. The developer has stripped the plans of the proposed office space and reduced the building height.

While the project had widespread support in the Trianon community, several Barclay Downs neighbors called on the Charlotte City Council to stop it saying it is too big, too tall, too dense, and will create too much traffic.

“Those shirts should have dollar signs on them because that is the real message,” said Mark Roberts, who opposed the project. “They need your vote.”

Charlotte City Councilmembers seemed on the fence about the project in February. They questioned whether the development fits in with their 2040 Plan and the surrounding neighborhood.

Trianon residents say they selected the developer over higher-priced bids because of the quality of the work.

“Our community chose Related, a developer that will build something special and not just a standard apartment project while still being considerate of the neighboring residences,” Taylor said.

The developer is promising to incorporate local art and donate $500,000 to the Housing Trust Fund.

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