On March 7, 2019, ULI Charlotte convened members to discuss the development of the West Morehead and Freedom Drive corridors. Moving from a thriving industrial community to its rebirth as one of the hottest submarkets in Charlotte. The panel shared their insights about what’s driving development, how to drive change the right way, and what the future will look like.

Below are some basic takeaways:

• • The West Charlotte neighborhood has major highways, greenway for bikers, international airport, and the interaction between multifamily, office and restaurants/retail.
  • Panelists spoke about the importance of matching the architecture with the neighborhood – Bart Murr from Insite Properties called the Refinery style “modern industrial”.
  • Both the Arlo and Refinery have rooftop amenities, a growing trend in Charlotte, NC.
  • Challenges – Neighborhood constraints (Wesley Heights neighborhood on one side, flood plain on the other), finding old rail ties, and rehabilitating old buildings came with a wealth of challenges. Construction challenges at Refinery and Arlo were about a tight site.
  • Panelists discussed incorporating artwork:
    • Jason Jacobson from Arlo got creative and partnered with UNC Charlotte art professor and a class came up with replaceable murals.
    • Matt Browder from The Browder Group talked about incorporating artwork and old railroad tracks in the Thrift Rd buildings area.

It’s definitely an exciting time for West Charlotte and we can’t wait to see what growth looks like over the next decade and beyond! A special thanks to the panel, including Bart Murr, Insite Properties; Matt Browder, The Browder Group; Jim Noble, Noble Food & Pursuits and Jason Jacobson from Arlo. Notes provided by Emily Crandall, ULI Charlotte’s Marketing Chair. 

Click here to view event video.