CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte City Council was expected to decide at Monday night's council meeting which project proposal it prefers for Eastland Yards.
However, instead of voting for one plan, councilmembers voted unanimously to task the developers behind the two final proposals to collaborate on one new vision.
The future of the 29-acre site of part of the old Eastland Mall property could finally be determined after what some community members have called a drawn out process.
City leaders have previously said they're taking their time to make sure they find the right fit for the site but neighbors are tired of the site sitting vacant.
The first option called QC East would bring sports fields, an amphitheater, an e-sports venue, and more to the property. City Council's economic development committee voted in favor of this option in early August.
The second option is an indoor sports complex with 10 basketball courts, outdoor soccer fields, a learning center, hotel, and more. Hundreds of east Charlotte residents have signed a petition saying they prefer the indoor sports complex.
During Monday night's meeting, Councilmember Marjorie Molina proposed to defer the vote on the two proposals. She then proposed the two developers work together to combine their visions into a new, hybrid plan.
"The idea is to get the very best of each part of this," Mayor Vi Lyles said.
Before council members voted on Molina's motion, they let the public share what they want for Eastland Yards. Several people spoke in favor of both plans. QC East was favored for its e-sports and STEM opportunities, while the indoor complex was hailed for being accessible to the community.
Many people brought up affordability concerns with QC East because it would house the Charlotte Soccer Academy. There were also noise and traffic concerns due to the outdoor amphitheater. Developers involved with the project said there are many accessible aspects of QC East and concerts would only occur 10-15 times a year.
As developers behind QC East and the indoor complex work to combine their plans, city council has asked them to specifically focus on including an indoor sports complex, outdoor sports fields, e-sports opportunities, food, and retail.
The new plan is expected to be presented to the city in mid-October.
Contact Julia Kauffman at jkauffman@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
WCNC Charlotte is committed to reporting on the issues facing the communities we serve. We tell the stories of people working to solve persistent social problems. We examine how problems can be solved or addressed to improve the quality of life and make a positive difference. WCNC Charlotte is seeking solutions for you. Send your tips or questions to newstips@wcnc.com.