Symphony Park's proposed $21M facelift includes restaurants and retail
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Rendering: Courtesy of SouthPark Community Partners
A $21 million plan to transform Symphony Park near SouthPark Mall was presented to city leaders Monday.
Why it matters: If approved, the park would get a new plaza and entry point, a connection to the Loop (a 3-mile trail that is currently being built), an updated existing bandshell, two restaurants, plus retail and restrooms.
Between the lines: Reimagining the 7.5-acre site is part of "The SouthPark Vision Plan," which SouthPark Community Partners (SCP) released last spring.
By the numbers: $13 million of the $21 million project would be privately funded and $8 million would be publicly funded.
- Simon Property Group, which owns the park and nearby SouthPark Mall, would fund $8 million, and SCP would organize a capital campaign to raise $5 million.
- SCP is asking the city for $8 million in public funds, which SCP suggests would come from existing District 6 bonds.
Zoom in: Simon would retain its ownership of the site and work with the city for additional public use. The group would also be responsible for building the two restaurants and outdoor spaces, and would cover any additional costs in these areas.
- SCP would oversee park design and improvements, plus retail, restrooms and the Loop. It would also operate and determine programing for Symphony Park and lease and maintain retail, which would focus on small businesses.
- The Charlotte Symphony would continue to have its concert series here.
What we're watching: Charlotte city council members want to know if Mecklenburg County will be involved in the project. Adam Rhew, SCP president and CEO, says conversations with the county are ongoing.
What's next: The proposed timeline estimates construction to begin in summer 2026, with the project wrapping up in summer 2027.
The big picture: Symphony Park has seen an increase in visits because of free community events by 180%, per SCP.
- SouthPark After Five drew over 50,000 people in the first two seasons, Rhew told city leaders. The free, family-friendly activity returns there later this month.
Take a look at the renderings.
