Proposed stadium renovation could lure soccer team to Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Mecklenburg County leaders will discuss renovating the historic Memorial Stadium in Charlotte’s Elizabeth neighborhood at their meeting Wednesday night.

Supporters of the plan hope the changes could lure a professional soccer team to Charlotte.

Officials want to keep the stadium's historic feel, but the $24 million upgrade would grow the stadium to 11,000 seats to meet the professional soccer regulations.

The renovation plan would place a stone wall in the stands and transform the field into a soccer stadium.

Channel 9 learned tax money would help fund the project along with money from the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, Independence Soccer, or the county.

Some residents told Channel 9 that they worry the stadium will not have the infrastructure to support a professional team. Others are concerned about the added cars that would stream in to the neighborhood.

County commissioner Matthew Ridenhour said he is considering all options right now.

If approved, construction could start in 2018.

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