CORNELIUS, N.C. — The developer for a massive hotel project in Cornelius is moving forward.
Cole Jenest & Stone filed a land development application form on behalf of Sreemamulu Nara of Sunrise, Florida.
Nara is attempting to rezone land off West Catawba Avenue near Waterview Drive so a hotel and conference center can be built.
Project plans obtained by Channel 9 show the developer wants to build a 14-story, 302-room hotel complete with a restaurant, conference center and beach access.
The developer is calling the project the Robbins Park Hotel.
The developer hosted a community meeting Wednesday at the Cornelius Town Hall to discuss the project and its impact on Cornelius. It's the next step before the project can go to the Planning Board and Town Board.
Neighbors on Waterview Drive have been rallying against the project.
The Lake Norman Chamber Commerce is monitoring the conversation. Chambers officials told Channel 9 there is a need for a hotel and conference center in North Mecklenburg County but they aren't certain if this is the best location.
People who travel along West Catawba Avenue say the hotel will make the commute worse.
"I wouldn't stay in Cornelius if I had the choice," Rachel Porter said.
"There are too many people already as it is," Josh Houser said. "It's just going to bring more."
West Catawba Avenue is scheduled to be widened in 2020. There is no timeline for construction if the rezoning request is approved.
Cox Media Group
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