Don’t make picnic plans just yet, but a move from Charlotte City Council puts a brand new Eastside park one step closer to becoming a reality. Council members voted unanimously just this week to approve the transfer of 4.5 acres of the old Eastland Mall site to Mecklenburg County. That acreage will be used for a proposed public park.
According to the County’s website, the Eastland Park concept would include, two lawn areas (one artificial and one natural turf with terraced seating), walking trails, covered picnic and performance areas, a restroom, playground with hillside play, sprayground, a multi-purpose court area that can accommodate basketball, futsal, and hockey, skateable elements, seating, and landscaping.
“This is a significant step forward,” Council member-at-large Dimple Ajmera told Partners for Parks. “A public park is an integral part of the redevelopment of the Eastland site. It’ll address the dire need of open and green space in the area. Eastside residents have waited far too long, so Monday’s vote is part of delivering on our commitment.”
“I am thrilled the city, county and community are moving forward together to create Eastland Park,” added Councilwoman Marjorie Molina, who represents District 5. “This exciting project is a symbol of progress and renewal, and reflects the city’s commitment to creating spaces that enrich the lives of current and future generations.”
The new park is part of larger project on the site called Eastland Yards, an 80-acre mixed-use project in partnership with developer Crosland Southeast. Just last month, the City agreed to move forward with development on 29 acres of that property, and approved up to $30 million to reimburse expenses related to the project. According to the City; the development, temporarily dubbed ‘The Complex’, will feature sports and entertainment elements from two finalist proposals presented to the council earlier this year.
“This is a real life example of, ‘breathing new life into the community,’” said Partners for Parks Treasurer, Al Brown. “This partnership between the City of Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and private developers will create an opportunity for everyone’s benefit.”
The Complex is expected to generate $169 million annually and create more than 500 jobs. The project is estimated to cost between $90 and $100 million, with construction expected to last for up to 38 months.
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