New Greenway Connector Opens in Ballantyne

overhead map of greenway and proposed extensions to greenways

An area of Charlotte more renowned for its high-end shopping centers, sprawling office parks and exclusive neighborhoods is working hard to add community, walkability, and connectivity to the conversation. A brand-new greenway extension between Lower McAlpine Creek Greenway and Ballantyne Corporate Place on the Ballantyne campus is certainly a talking point in that discussion.

Mecklenburg County and Northwood Office representatives quite literally cut the ribbon on this greenway extension earlier this month. The joint greenway project by Northwood Office and Mecklenburg County is part of Ballantyne Reimagined, Northwood’s effort to create a more walkable, mixed-use community in this area of southern Mecklenburg County, per the County’s news release.

“We appreciate Mecklenburg County and the City of Charlotte’s investment in public infrastructure to support extending the greenway,” said John Barton, president of Northwood Office. “By working together, we’re excited to offer enhanced access for the community to enjoy all that Ballantyne has to offer while providing an easy way to connect with the greater greenway system.”

As part of Ballantyne Reimagined, visitors can now access the Ballantyne campus from the Lower McAlpine Creek, McMullen Creek and Four Mile Creek Greenways. The Northwood Office and Mecklenburg County joint project links Lower McAlpine Greenway to Ballantyne Corporate Place. This connection enhances accessibility to The Bowl at Ballantyne™, The Amp Ballantyne™, and the recently-opened six-acre Stream Park.

The connectivity to the area won’t end there. According to GoBallantyne.com, six new roads and several intersection upgrades are underway as part of the Ballantyne Reimagined development. Additionally, NCDOT is creating a direct connector to Johnston Road from the I-485 Express Lanes. The Ballantyne area is also part of the City of Charlotte’s 2030 Transit Corridor System Plan to bring three dedicated light rail stops here.

Ballantyne is also home to more than 100 acres of open green spaces, 20 parks and ponds, and more than 20 miles of walking paths and bike lanes to enjoy. Reimagined, indeed.