City Council recently approved a major development on Monroe Road and Idlewild Road, guaranteed to change the face of southeast Charlotte. Rezoning is complete, so when will the new stores open? Here’s what we know – and a little bit about the influence that MoRA exercised in shaping the project.
We talked with Selwyn Property Group partner Jensie Teague. He graciously worked with MoRA in implementing recommendations for the project. Like us, he’s eager to see a clean-up of the site so that construction can begin. However, it may be 4-6 months after the engineering and permitting process. Teague anticipates a late 2018 opening for the grocer, with the retail building under construction at the same time. The second structure has been designed to allow for outdoor seating and gathering spots, which should entice the neighborhood friendly tenants MoRA residents want.
Teague was complimentary about working with us, thanking “MoRA for both its cooperative spirit and the good advice it offered during the rezoning process. Selwyn Property Group looks forward to continuing to work with MoRA as we build out this project.” MoRA has offered to identify and help recruit potential tenants, as well as keep the community updated as new tenants sign and open.
MoRA’s Land Use committee asked Teague reposition the store so that it was closer to the street, mimicking the “zero lot lines” that you see at Meridian Place. That and the addition of trees and landscaping means you don’t see parked cars, making the corner more urban-looking and inviting.
Our volunteer group focused on bike and pedestrian access. We believe safety and access is an important trend that will make the MoRA area more appealing. Upcoming intersection plans should complement and flow with the Selwyn property, providing safe shopping for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists.
City Council and Zoning Committee members complimented MoRA and the petitioner for how well they worked together. MoRA also appreciates the assistance of City staff, as well as the guidance of MoRA Advisor Mary Hopper, during this very complex rezoning. The development will become part of the Independence Trail bike and pedestrian path. The 12-foot multiuse path along the Monroe and Idlewild frontage will actually be the first section built for the long Independence Trail. The City planning staff was intent on enhancing connections within the site. Bike racks and signage will remind motorists to look out for pedestrians and cyclists. Improvements in building materials and decorative lighting, also requested by MoRA, will be added as the project builds out.
Stay tuned as this important corner takes shape. We will keep you informed with any news about this exciting new shopping, and of course, any other changes along our corridor.
