Two months after we learned that developer Edens would completely overhaul the Atherton Mill area in South End, we now have our first look at what the project could potentially look like.

This is a huge win for South End and Charlotte as it is going to bring some much needed retail into the uptown area. J. Crew, Patagonia and Urban Outfitters are some of the names I am hearing as potential tenants and it is just excellent.

One major positive about the new plans is it seems they are now saving the Atherton Market, beloved by so many. One other item that is cool is it seems they are making a rail trail plaza of sorts outside the market and really integrating this project with the rail trail (now if only we could get a freaking light rail stop here).

The parking is all masked by the retail behind the structure and the project is doing its best to activate South Boulevard. I have a bit of a concern in this aspect as most know, South Boulevard is not a very walkable street, especially in this area, and cars treat it like a highway. Hopefully with some additions of stop lights it will slow the traffic down and make it safer.

The design of the project is also something to note. Unlike so many projects in South End this one goes out of its way to integrate pedestrians and enhance the public experience. No cars behind bars, no Charlotte Beige. It’s a classic design.

So here are the stats on the project.

Again, this is still conceptual and as we have seen the plans can still change. Here are the highlights

• Total retail: 116,734 square feet with 461 parking spaces
  • Existing retail: 56,534 square feet, 142 existing parking spaces. 
  • Atherton Market is remaining.
  • New retail: 60,200 square feet, 319 parking spaces provided plus 25 on street
• 371 apartment units with 552 parking spaces
• Estimated completion: Summer 2018

We will keep you updated as this project continues to develop, but overall Edens has absolutely nailed it. I am sure we will all thank them for the retail and pedestrian activity this brings.