New development could take place around BB&T Ballpark, as the Charlotte Knights (Class AAA; International League) are considering their options for an area around the facility.
Just three years after its opening, BB&T Ballpark is receiving slew of upgrades, including the recently-unveiled overhauls to the Piedmont Natural Gas Picnic Area and the Miller Lite Rooftop Party Zone. In the comings years, changes could extend to commercial development.
Currently, the Knights are considering their options for a parcel on the northeast side of the ballpark. The team has previously discussed constructing a six-story office tower at the site, an option that is still in the mix. However, Knights COO Dan Rajkowski said the club wants to evaluate its options before reaching a firm conclusion. More from The Charlotte Observer:
Rajkowski said the Knights are working with consultants to analyze the market and make sure an office building still makes sense for the site. The building would include a rooftop terrace, along with restaurant and dining options on the ground floor that baseball attendees would be able to use.
“We’re still looking at office, but with everything that’s grown around us, we want to confirm that’s the highest and best use,” said Rajkowski. “We want to get this right.”
“The goal is to get it going as soon as we can, and it may be phased,” said Rajkowski. The county owns the land, which the Knights lease for $1 a year. The building would also have to be constructed around the baseball season and other events at the ballpark.
“The challenge is playing baseball around construction,” said Rajkowski. “It’s a little more challenging than some projects.”
There has been some changes around the venue since its opening but, as seen with other projects, it can take years for the related development to come together. Regardless, the Knights are still in a position to continue to overhaul the ballpark and surrounding area, potentially making BB&T Ballpark another example of a facility that includes anchor development.
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