Time to step out on a new field. Charlotte City Council unanimously approved the Carolina Panthers’ petition for a redeveloped and expanded Uptown practice facility.
No, this isn’t for Bank of America Stadium. We’ll get there.
Let’s head to practice
The Panthers currently have one full outdoor field and a smaller field for individual walk-throughs and practice.
The rezoning petition was filed in February. The new facility will be on 325 S. Cedar St. + boast 5,000 seats, two upgraded outdoor fields, an indoor field, and a fan-viewing deck. Editor’s note: The indoor field will be full size, compared to “the bubble” — just a 60-yd field.
The new practice facility was met with mixed reviews during a public hearing in May. Residents were concerned the new facility would block skyline views. Thus, Tepper Sports & Entertainment reduced the peak of the facility roof to 70 ft.
Some changes were made during the rezoning meeting, including: a public art feature collaboration with the Urban Design Center, a 17-ft pedestrian path for bike lanes, and realigning/restriping the South Cedar Street crosswalk. The pedestrian path will be installed no later than May 31, 2025.
Construction on the two outdoor fields is expected to be ready by training camp in July. Council approval was not required for development.
What about cost? A total amount remains TBA.
What about Bank of America Stadium?
Charlotte City Council also held a public hearing Monday for residents and business owners to voice opinions on the proposed $650 million renovations to Bank of America Stadium.
Neighbors previously opposed using tax funds for the improvements. Council members also sought protections with TSE, citing the failed practice facility in Rock Hill.
Under the proposed deal, the city would provide one-time funding of $650 million. Tepper Sports & Entertainment would invest $688+ million. The Panthers revealed the city’s investment would be drawn from existing hospitality and tourism tax resources.
The proposed upgrades would provide new seats, exterior upgrades, state-of-the-art sound systems, and video boards.
City council is set to vote on Monday, June 24.
