A new Kannapolis Intimidators (Low A; Sally League) downtown ballpark set for 2020 may have lots of company, as Alabama-based Corporate Realty is pitching a $300-million investment as part of the downtown redevelopment.
According to Kannapolis officials, Corporate Realty, Inc., based in Birmingham, Alabama, is proposing four development projects that would bring apartments, retail and restaurant, corporate offices and more to the downtown.
The first project would involve the block of properties and buildings on West Avenue adjacent to the new ballpark. Corporate Realty is proposing a five-story, 280 multifamily apartment development, with retail on the ground floor, and a parking deck. A pedestrian walkway would connect two separate buildings. Outdoor amenities would allow residents and businesses to have views into the new Intimidators ballpark. This project would be completed by spring 2020 – when the new ballpark opens.
The second project would include the block of buildings adjacent to and south of the historic Gem Theatre. The City would retain ownership and preserve the Gem Theatre. Other buildings in this block would be redeveloped as historic creative office space, retail and restaurants, parking and more as well as some new construction.
The third project would be an active senior residential community on a portion of the property which used to be Plant 4, at Vance Avenue, between West Avenue and Dale Earnhardt Boulevard.
The fourth project would be a corporate headquarters office building on the site of property currently owned by Castle & Cooke and adjacent to the new ballpark. This project would be subject to an agreement with Castle & Cooke to be a partner in the development.
The Kannapolis City Council will consider the proposal and decide if they would like to adopt a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the firm for the development of the projects. The purpose of the MOU is to formalize the partnership with Corporate Realty, which is the first step in the development of the properties.
A new Intimidators ballpark has been a cornerstone in the effort to redevelop downtown Kannapolis. In terms of city expectations, we’re looking at more than just a ballpark; Kannapolis is positioning it as a Sports and Entertainment Venue, with year-round events. Construction is underway on the first phase, infrastructure improvements and a linear park streetscape, expected to be completed in early 2019. Construction of the new Kannapolis Intimidators ballpark will begin later this year.
Renderings courtesy City of Kannapolis.
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