Local

Developer eying dilapidated E. Independence Blvd. shopping center

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Big changes could be coming for an East Charlotte eyesore.
 
For years, the 18-acre Coliseum Shopping Center has sat largely vacant and ignored. 
 
Neighbors like Amy Harris have been dying to see that change.
 
"We were hoping for something that will give this community a little bit more that what's going on over there," Harris said.
 
More may be on the way. 
 
Eyewitness News learned that a Texas developer has a contract to buy the property. 
 
Greg Cervenka said he plans to totally renovate the property and its buildings to attract new retail businesses. 
 
City Councilman John Autry, who represents east Charlotte, is crossing his fingers. 
 
"Having the face and character of the Coliseum Shopping Center lifted up lifts up the whole area," Autry said.
 
No one is saying specifically what businesses are being recruited to the shopping center but Cervenka specializes in building in the shadow of Walmart stores like the one next door to the Coliseum Center property.
 
Cervenka still hasn't closed on the land deal and until he does, the project isn't a certainty. 
 
But east Charlotte boosters are hoping it happens soon.
 
"I'm ready to start waving the flags and banners and pointing people in that direction," Autry said. 
 
Harris said, "We are done with that eyesore. That's for sure."
         
Reporter Jim Bradley has more on what it could mean for the east side on Eyewitness News starting at 5 p.m.