See fresh renderings of Symphony Park's overhaul
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Planned Symphony Park renovations include upgrade to the bandshell. Rendering: Courtesy of SouthPark Community Partners
SouthPark's Symphony Park is halfway through the design process for a massive facelift. The plan is to begin construction in July 2026, resulting in a yearlong closure of the park.
Why it matters: The $21 million project's latest renderings give a glimpse at new ways to access the park once the project is complete. The park will be the signature destination of the SouthPark Loop, a roughly 3-mile trail through the neighborhood.
- "By creating new pathways into the space, what we're trying to signal is that this is a space for everybody, that you're welcome here," Adam Rhew, SouthPark Community Partners president and CEO tells Axios.
Catch up quick: SCP presented plans to renovate the 7.4-acre park to the city in April. Since then, public and private entities have committed funding to the project's capital campaign.
- TowneBank came on board in June, committing $1.5 million for the naming rights. The park will be called TowneBank Symphony Park.
By the numbers: Roughly 90% of the project's capital goal has been met, Rhew says. They have about $2 million left to raise. Other large contributors include:
- The city of Charlotte, whose $8 million will help address pedestrian access to the park.
- Simon Property Group, which owns SouthPark Mall and Phillips Place near the park, committed $8 million for two anchor restaurants. SCP expects these restaurants to help drive foot traffic at the park.
Zoom in: Park renovations include two new boardwalks connecting the Carnegie Boulevard and Barclay Downs Drive areas to the park. These will also connect to the Loop. The overall project will add 500-600 feet to the Loop.
Between the lines: The latest renderings do not include all of the details for the park, such as micro-retail, restaurant space, public art or permanent restrooms. These will be seen in future designs.
- LandDesign is the landscape architect and civil engineer. Neighboring Concepts is the architect for the micro-retail and permanent restrooms. Rodgers Builders is the general contractor.
What's next: Final design is expected in the first quarter of 2026, Rhew says. The park will be closed from summer 2026 until it is completed in summer 2027.
Stop by: Symphony Park is at 4400 Sharon Road next to SouthPark Mall.
Take a look at the latest renderings.
