3 things to know about latest building changes in Elizabeth neighborhood on E. 7th Street

Change is continuing along East 7th Street in Charlotte’s Elizabeth neighborhood where a Chicago developer is taking its next steps on a mixed-use project.

Last July, Centrum Realty & Development purchased five parcels in the area of 1801 E. 7th Street for $8.5 million, according to Mecklenburg County property records.

Plans are not yet finalized. Centrum is in discussions with the local neighborhood association about a mix of uses, including residential and commercial.

Here are three things to know about the project.

Rezoning filed with Charlotte

Centrum filed a rezoning petition late last month for a roughly 1.6-acre site, seeking to bring it from business to a mixed use classification.

Site plans filed with the city call for a mix of residential units and commercial space, though the specifics are still being discussed with the Elizabeth Community Association, said Centrum managing principal Larry Powers.

Powers previously said he likes the site for its location. It’s close to the center of gravity at Pecan Avenue and 7th where there are a number of businesses and restaurants including Caswell Station and The Crunkleton.

The recently-completed Elizabeth on Seventh project, a mixed-use building with office and retail, is also nearby. Rosemont Market & Wine Bar will open in the building in the spring, Charlotte Five reported on Tuesday.

Demolition begins on 7th Street

Crews are demolishing at least three buildings on the property. Mounds of rubble now stand where three separate buildings were located. Each had been vacant and in disrepair.

There were regular break-ins and someone recently attempted to set fire inside one of the buildings, Powers told The Charlotte Observer. “It’s just not safe,” Powers said.

Centrum and the community association worked to have a salvage company remove some historical elements, including windows, Powers said.

Charlotte rezoning process

It could be six or eight months before the rezoning petition goes before the City Council for a public hearing.

Centrum will spend more time talking with the community about what they’d like to see on the site, Powers said.