Rock Hill rezones failed Panthers site for industrial use
Rock Hill officials rezoned the failed Panthers site for future industrial development, boosting economic prospects.
ROCK HILL, S.C. — Rock Hill officials unanimously approved the rezoning of the failed Carolina Panthers practice facility site Monday night, clearing the way for future industrial development of the largely vacant property.
The city council voted to rezone approximately 215 acres at 2394 Eden Terrace from a commercial master plan to general industrial use. The decision also removes special design restrictions from a smaller 4.92-acre property on Mount Gallant Road.
The site has been a focus of attention since the Panthers project collapsed in 2022 following a financial dispute between team owner David Tepper, the city of Rock Hill, and York County. Currently, only some roads and utility infrastructure exist on the property.
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The rezoning follows a unanimous recommendation from the city’s Planning Commission, which voted on April 1 to support the change. City staff had recommended the rezoning, noting that converting such a large, underutilized property near an I-77 interchange could significantly boost the local economy.
While no specific development plans have been announced, city officials have previously expressed optimism about the site’s potential.
“There’s not many 235-acre parcels 25 miles south from an international airport that has direct access to the interstate,” John Gettys, Rock Hill mayor, told WCNC Charlotte last week. “That 235 acres gives us that opportunity to stretch ourselves and bring in the kind of jobs we don’t see in Rock Hill today.”
Planning Commission Chair Randy Graham has suggested other properties in the district should be considered for similar zoning adjustments to ensure consistency in the area.
Officials envision a mix of industrial and commercial uses for the property, which remains one of the largest undeveloped sites in the rapidly growing region just south of Charlotte.