Charlotte leaders to weigh controversial development in University City
Charlotte leaders like the proposal, but residents aren’t sure it’s the best use of the land.
UNIVERSITY CITY, N.C. — A major new development could be coming to University City, with a rezoning proposal that would bring more than 500 apartments to the area near Interstate 85.
Flourney Development Group has submitted a rezoning request for 51 acres inside University Research Park, near existing apartments and Electrolux North America. The project, if approved, would include:
- 560 apartments and 20 townhomes
- At least 7,500 square feet of commercial space
- No drive-thru businesses allowed
During a recent Charlotte City Council meeting, officials weighed in on the potential impact.
“There will be an impact to the community,” Mayor Pro Tem Dante Anderson said.
Councilmember Dimple Ajmeria expressed support, noting the area’s rapid growth.
“I used to work in Research Park area, and I’ve just seen how the area has evolved in the past eight years with all the development so I can see how well this fits in,” Ajmeria said.
Not all residents are on board. Jerard Hazelton, who lives nearby, believes the area needs a different kind of development.
“Smaller square footage for single-family homes versus these stacked apartment buildings,” Hazelton said. “I think we’ve got our quota of that. I feel there needs to be much more green spaces, park areas.”
The proposal heads to the Charlotte Zoning Committee on April 1 for further review. It could face the City Council on April 21.
Contact Walker Lawson at wlawson@wcnc.com or follow him on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.