CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The first look at plans to change several key roads in the Charlotte’s North End that are designed at boosting business along North Tryon Street were released Thursday.
Mark Middlesworth and his business, Extravagazna, have called North Tryon Street home since 2000. They host events and rent out party equipment.
Middlesworth said he's wanted the area to get a boost for a while.
"The opportunities are endless down the strip," he said.
Now city planners are giving a first look at a dramatic plan to help.
Engineering project manager Tom Russell said the North Tryon Business Corridor Project will make the street a one-way street going away from the city from 23rd Street to 29th Street.
It will also make Church Street one way headed into the city.
Russell said connector streets will be added, making the traffic pattern complete. The plan widens lanes without affecting many current businesses.
"The main goal is to revitalize distressed business corridors in Charlotte," Russell said.
The plan also calls for aesthetic improvements, including more sidewalks, lighting, trees and green space.
"We have utility poles on the curb and sidewalks missing in certain sections. The lanes are narrow -- it's just not a good feel," said Russell.
The hope is that a better aesthetics will bring new business and consumers to the area.
Russell said work on specific design details will start next month. And while construction won't likely start for at least two years, Middlesworth said he is glad the plan is under way.
"I had visions this would someday happen. I'm very happy the city is investing the money to make it happen," he said.
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