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Welcome to future downtown Cornelius

Downtown Cornelius will soon welcome a new residential complex packed with upcoming restaurants, retail, and a walkable outdoor plaza.

An artist's rendering of a busy street teaming with people along restaurants and shopfronts at nighttime.

Take a glimpse at the upcoming Catawba Court.

Rendering via Town of Cornelius

Excitement came quickly when we shared upcoming plans for SouthPark’s Symphony Park and The District Exchange in Concord. Now, it’s time to show Cornelius some love.

Space to live

A new era awaits ~ 20 miles north of Charlotte in downtown Cornelius, as town leaders recently approved a major redevelopment plan called Mill’s Market — a $80 million mixed-use project led by Charlotte-based Highline Partners.

Celebrated as a key part of the Downtown Master Plan, Mill’s Market will bring a five-story apartment building with 239 multi-family units to the corner of Catawba Avenue and Meridian Street in the heart of the Arts District.

Editor’s note: The town is collecting feedback on the Downtown Master Plan through Wednesday, April 30.

Amenities abound

Residents will have access to a pool, courtyard, and a second-story rooftop garden before heading downstairs for a ground-level corner restaurant and 12,000 sqft of retail and commercial space.

An artist's colored sketch of an upcoming luxury apartment complex.

Here’s a glimpse of what Mill’s Market plans to look like.

Artwork via Highline Partners

It’s not all about taking up space. Development plans include a 6.5-level parking deck with 250+ spaces for residents, businesses, and public use.

Party on the plaza

Prepare for plenty of selfies to be captured at the upcoming public plaza called “Catawba Court.” The European-inspired alleyway will feature trees, storefront access, and pedestrian-friendly walkability — an answer to resident concerns about traffic being too busy.

Highline Partners said the project aligns with Cornelius’ downtown vision and effort to preserve the area’s character. The architecture pays homage to the town’s mill history, with mill-style rounded windows and a lighter brown-toned brick façade.

A new era

Mayor Woody Washam hailed the development as a pivotal moment in revitalizing downtown Cornelius to attract more residents, businesses, and visitors.

Mill’s Market remains in pre-development with entitlements being secured. A completion date remains TBA. Stay tuned.

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