The Carolina Panthers are advancing plans for a state-of-the-art practice facility in Uptown Charlotte, bringing the team’s training operations closer to the heart of the city.

Rezoning Initiatives Move Forward

On Monday, Charlotte City Council members conducted a public hearing regarding the rezoning of 12.04 acres of land near Bank of America Stadium. The proposed rezoning, filed by Panthers Stadium, LLC in February, aims to transform the area into a UE Uptown Edge Zoning District, facilitating the development of the Panthers’ new practice facility.

The targeted area, situated east of South Cedar Street, west of Fourth Street, and north of Mint Street, encompasses the former practice fields and the now-demolished Atrium Health indoor facility. The expansion plan also includes portions of a city-owned parking lot off West Fourth Street.

Development Plans

The proposed development plans entail constructing essential facilities for the team, including:

• A parking deck
• An indoor field house
• An outdoor practice facility with temporary seating for up to 5,000 spectators

Community Considerations

Charlotte’s city planning staff has recommended approval of the rezoning petition, citing potential public benefits. However, concerns have been raised by some residents, including Wesley Clark, a Uptown resident who expressed discontent with the proposed changes. Residents have voiced worries about increased traffic and parking issues in the neighborhood.

Addressing Concerns

In response to community feedback, Panthers representatives, Jeff Brown and Caroline Wright, assured council members of adjustments made to accommodate residents’ concerns. These adjustments include provisions for the future LYNX Silver Line light rail and limiting building heights to preserve residents’ views of the city skyline.

Training Camp Relocation

The Panthers announced their intention to relocate the team’s Training Camp to Uptown facilities in 2024. This move marks a significant shift from the team’s longstanding tradition of holding Training Camp at Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The team is currently in the process of preparing outdoor grass fields, scheduled to be ready for the upcoming training camp in July.

Previous Attempts and Optimism

Previously, the team had planned to establish a training facility in Rock Hill, South Carolina, but encountered legal obstacles that halted the project midway. Despite setbacks, Uptown business owners remain optimistic about the potential economic benefits that the new facility and training camp could bring to the area.

Next Steps

The planning committee is set to deliberate on the rezoning petition and formulate their recommendations to the council in their upcoming meeting on Tuesday, June 4. While the public hearing has concluded, interested parties are encouraged to engage with committee members ahead of the meeting to provide feedback and insights.

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Conclusion: Embracing Change for Growth

The Panthers’ proposal for a new practice facility in Uptown Charlotte reflects the team’s commitment to evolving with the city’s landscape. As discussions continue and adjustments are made to address community concerns, this initiative holds the promise of revitalizing the area while providing fans and residents with enhanced amenities and experiences.

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