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It’s hard to keep something this big under wraps.
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INSIDE ▼ State lawmakers focus on squatters
Park Pointe Village
More to love. Coming soon.
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Friday, April 11, 2025 • Vol. 25 • No. 14
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Partnership could elevate SouthPark’s Symphony Park CHARLOTTE – SouthPark Community Partners unveiled April 7 the framework for a public-private partnership to transform Symphony Park into a premier urban park. The $21 million project leverages public and private funds to renovate the 7.4acre green space, fulfilling a decade-long desire for a signature public space on the SouthPark Loop. “Symphony Park will become an extraordinary community destination home to frequent, high-quality programming that invites deeper connections among others,” said Adam Rhew, president and CEO of SouthPark Community Partners. “The framework we announced today is the product of hard work by a big team over many years. We are grateful for the opportunity to work with Simon Property Group, the City of
Charlotte, the business community and others to deliver a signature public space for all.” Under the proposed terms of the partnership, the private sector will commit $13 million to improvements, led by a significant investment from Simon Property Group to build two permanent anchor restaurants at the park’s edge. SouthPark Community Partners is launching a $5 million capital campaign to support the project. More information about the campaign is available at southparkclt.org/symphonypark. SouthPark Community Partners is requesting $8 million from the City of Charlotte, leveraging existing bond capacity dedicated for capital projects in the SouthPark area, including Symphony Park improvements. Story continues, see SYMPHONY page 3A
SouthPark Community Partners shared this rendering of potential upgrades for Symphony Park. Photo courtesy of SCP
Charlotte resident honored for work with Special Olympics Vicki Tilley, health director for Special Olympics North Carolina, presented Dr. Tobias Tsai with the award at the 2025 SONC Champion Wellness and Health festival on March 21 in Charlotte. Photo courtesy of SONC
CHARLOTTE – Special Olympics North Carolina presented Dr. Tobias Tsai, of Charlotte, with the Golisano Health Leadership Award for his contributions to people with disabilities. The organization created the award to recognize health partners and their efforts toward fulfilling the mission of Special Olympics’ global health program, made possible by the Golisano Foundation. Tsai works in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the Wake Forest
University School of Medicine and Carolinas Rehabilitation at Atrium Health. As medical director of the Inpatient Pediatric Rehabilitation Unit at Levine Children’s Hospital, Tsai has been instrumental in enhancing access to pediatric rehabilitation care across the Carolinas. He has also trained and mentored physicians and medical students. “I am so thankful for this award and truly honored to be recognized,” Tsai said. “Working with Special Olympics athletes has been an incredi-
bly rewarding experience, and I am grateful for every opportunity to support their health and well-being.” Tsai has been involved in SONC’s health programming since training as a clinical director in 2016. In this volunteer role, he has engaged medical residents at Atrium Health in hands-on experiences with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Story continues, see OLYMPICS page 3A
PopUp Bagels expanding The Bowl at Ballantyne CHARLOTTE – PopUp Bagels is expanding into the Charlotte area later this summer, including a location at The Bowl at Ballantyne.
The 1,278-square-foot restaurant will be located at 14020 Stream Way, Suite 113. Having started as a local favorite in Westport, Connecticut, PopUp Bagels has opened locations across New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts. “Having spent years visiting Charlotte for the holidays with my family, I am excited to roll out our fresh hot bagels to the Ballantyne community,” said Adam Goldberg, founder of PopUp Bagels. The brand was PopUp Bagels is currently available in New York, Connecticut and ranked as Yelp’s No. 1 Massachusetts and will soon be serving south Charlotte. Photo courtesy of Jen Bagel in New York City Goldberg
earlier this year and has received critical acclaim from ABC’s “Good Morning America” and other media outlets. PopUp Bagels’ menu at The Bowl will be the same as all its other locations, including its Plain, Salt, Poppy, Sesame and Everything bagels, paired with schmears. Guests can enjoy bagels straight from the bag or they can be taken to enjoy as they explore Ballantyne’s green space and trails. “We can’t wait for PopUp Bagels to join our growing lineup of tenants at The Bowl,” said Cayla Stauffer, marketing and events manager for Northwood Office. “Bagel lovers in Ballantyne are in for a savory treat with their fresh-from-the-oven traditional bagels and tasty spreads.” On the web: popupbagels.com or thebowlnc.com
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Community Area Plans outline guidelines for Charlotte growth CHARLOTTE, – The City of Charlotte Planning, Design & Development Department has released 14 draft Community Area Plans for neighbors to give feedback on. These plans provide more detailed recommendations for shaping growth, addressing factors such as land use, urban design, transportation and infrastructure. See them at https://cltfuture2040.com. They are designed to build upon the Charlotte Future 2040 Comprehensive Plan’s vision. Plans provide detailed guidance and strategic direction to ensure development initiatives align with Charlotte's long-term vision for sustainable growth. “With the introduction of the Community Area Plans, we are taking significant strides towards realizing Charlotte's future goals,” Interim Planning Director Monica Holmes said. “These plans not only enhance our ability to manage growth effectively but also foster vibrant, resilient neighborhoods that reflect the diverse needs and aspirations of our residents.” Key features of the plans include: • Identification of the geography’s greatest needs. • A recommended development pattern for each geography. • Identification of private and public investments needed to support future growth. Community feedback is needed to ensure the plans reflect the needs and priorities of Charlotte’s neighborhoods. The city encourages stakeholders to review the draft plans and provide feedback by May 9. Draft plans and feedback options are detailed on https://cltfuture2040.com. The city is hosting virtual office hours every Tuesday and Thursday, where residents can ask questions and learn more about the plans. A public hearing will be held April 28. The city will catalogue and review all input for common themes. City council will consider this feedback, along with staff recommendations, before making final decisions on the plans.