Jan 30, 2024 - Charlotte Douglas International Airport is on the precipice of monumental change.
This month, the Airport took a major step forward in creating the CLT Destination District, a mixed-use commercial development project that will transform the Airport’s front door and create an economic boon for Charlotte’s west side.
Where one might see a large empty field, CLT Commercial & Community Engagement Director Stuart Hair sees a once-in-a-generation opportunity.
“This milestone project is a decade in the making, and we are excited to redefine the initial Airport experience for local passengers,” Hair said.
Now through Feb. 22, CLT is accepting proposals to develop 90 acres of land off Wilkinson Boulevard with a combination of hotels, restaurants, retail and manufacturing. The Airport started purchasing this property years ago with the intention of injecting more economic activity in the area.
The Destination District is made up of two distinct areas, Destination District Central and the East Area.
Destination District Central
The 39-acre site is at the intersection of North Josh Birmingham Parkway and Wilkinson Boulevard and has recently been rezoned as a Regional Activity Center. It is ideal for hotel, restaurant and retail development, based on market research and analytics.
Planners have identified the following businesses as potential fits for this area:
- Upper midscale hotel
- Upscale hotel and conference center
- Full-service restaurants
- Quick-service restaurants
- Craft brewery
- Retail banking centers
- Medical care
- Fitness center
- Shipping and business services
The land could be developed many different ways, and this is an open bidding process. Any commercial developer with great ideas is encouraged to apply. The Airport welcomes all plans that meet customer needs in the market and are capable of being financed.
Destination District East
This 51-acre site is at the intersection of Stafford Drive and Wilkinson Boulevard and is suited for advanced manufacturing, logistics, distribution as well as other warehouse and office uses.
Why Here, Why Now
Charlotte is among the top five fastest growing cities in the nation, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While most of the passenger traffic at CLT is connections, local passenger traffic is growing at a rapid rate. The 7th busiest Airport in the world plans to create a world-class front door.
“In creating the Destination District, the Airport is extending its service to the community beyond traveling, connecting people with the services they need and filling a void in this busy part of the city,” Hair said.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires CLT to be financially self-sustainable. The Airport also is mandated to put non-aeronautical land into productive use.
When COVID-19 led to fewer flights, lower passenger numbers and decreased revenue in 2020, non-aeronautical revenue became more important than ever to airports nationwide.
Non-aeronautical revenue is generated from commercial enterprises, such as concessions, duty free, parking, advertising, car rental facilities and real estate income. The latter of which CLT saw as a tremendous opportunity for growth.
Down the Road
The Destination District aligns with the City of Charlotte’s 2040 Comprehensive Plan, and it accommodates the Charlotte Area Transit System’s future plans for a LYNX Silver Line light rail station.
Development proposals will be accepted until Feb. 22. Notification of selected proposals is scheduled for April 2.
The first businesses could open within a couple of years. The development would be done in phases over the next five to 10+ years.
Learn more about the CLT Destination District on the Airport website.
