Independence Boulevard Can Become the New South End

According to a recent article in the Charlotte Business Journal, Charlotte developer B.V. Belk Jr. views the Independence Boulevard corridor as ripe for redevelopment, similar to the renaissance under way in the South Boulevard corridor.

From the article:

While predominately a retail developer, Belk has begun putting together plans to construct up to 400 residential units along Independence, replacing an old motel across Arena Boulevard from Ovens Auditorium.

The target market: members of Charlotte’s work force who can’t afford pricey uptown condos but want good quality housing, Belk says. “It’s got to go first-class,” he says. “All the amenities. Swimming pool. Fitness center.”

A pending market study will determine if the site will have for-sale units, apartments or a blend, Belk says, but he’s leaning toward rental. He believes too few of those units are being built as developers focus on luxury towers.

Belk sees an underserved market and an area ready to be reborn. “This is the best place to be if you want to be close to downtown,” he says. “You never hit a red light.”

I agree that Mr Belk has hit on one of the region’s best kept secrets. However the neighborhoods in this area will ONLY support appropriate mixes of residential projects – all high density residential that is not owner-occupied has not worked in Charlotte. All property in this area MUST be built according to the Eastside Strategy Plan and any local plans like the Eastland Area Plan.

Mr Belk’s development plans also hinge on Independence Boulevard with a light rail line and not bus rapid transit!