Charlotte, NC, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Newell Presbyterian Church in Charlotte is selling a 4.5-acre parcel of land to a nonprofit developer for the construction of 50 affordable townhomes. This initiative aims to address financial challenges and the growing need for affordable housing in the area. The church, which has experienced declining attendance, hopes to foster community and support working-class families through this partnership with DreamKey Partners. The sale is expected to be finalized in October.
Charlotte – Newell Presbyterian Church is selling a 4.5-acre parcel of land to a nonprofit developer to facilitate the construction of 50 affordable townhomes, addressing both financial challenges and the growing need for affordable housing in Charlotte. The sale, expected to be finalized in October, comes as the church grapples with declining attendance and financial sustainability, with only about 50 attendees on Sundays and an annual budget of $190,000.
Situated in a rapidly developing area, the 9.5 acres of land owned by the church has grown in demand, prompting leaders to take action amid financial uncertainty. Four years ago, church leaders projected that the congregation had about 18 months of financial solvency remaining, leading to the creation of a “dream team” to explore alternative possibilities for the property.
With a mission to provide affordable housing for working-class families, the townhomes will be available to homeowners earning 80% of the area median income—approximately $85,000 for a family of four. This initiative reflects the church’s commitment to fostering community, reminiscent of its past role in supporting young families. The project is made possible through a partnership with DreamKey Partners, a nonprofit real estate development company.
While the financial implications of the land sale remain uncertain, church leaders are more focused on community stewardship than securing immediate cash flow. Newell Presbyterian is also considering additional initiatives, such as renting educational space to nonprofit business incubators and potentially creating a playground or park on the remaining land.
This transition aligns with a broader trend observed across the United States, where approximately 200 to 400 congregations have repurposed their properties for affordable housing within the past decade. Despite facing challenges in membership, the Newell Presbyterian congregation has reported a growth in faith and commitment among its members, driving their desire to create an affordable housing community.
As community leaders recognize the housing crisis in Charlotte, they are increasingly collaborating with faith-based organizations such as Newell Presbyterian and Caldwell Presbyterian Church. The latter plans to convert its building into 21 studio apartments for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. Charlotte’s Faith in Housing initiative aims to mobilize faith-based organizations and provide education and resources to tackle housing challenges effectively.
The combined efforts of Newell Presbyterian and other churches in the area demonstrate a commitment to addressing community needs amid changing landscapes of faith and attendance. By taking steps toward affordable housing, these congregations are not only enriching their commitments to their communities but also ensuring they retain their relevance in a rapidly changing society.
FAQ
Why is Newell Presbyterian Church selling its land?
The church is selling a 4.5-acre parcel of land to a nonprofit developer to create affordable housing, addressing its financial struggles and declining attendance.
What will the land be used for?
The land will be developed into 50 affordable townhomes available to families earning around 80% of the area median income.
When is the sale expected to be finalized?
The sale is expected to be finalized in October.
How does this initiative align with broader community efforts?
This initiative is part of a larger trend where churches are repurposing their properties for affordable housing, and it aligns with Charlotte’s Faith in Housing initiative to engage faith-based organizations in addressing housing challenges.
Key Features of the Newell Presbyterian Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Land Size | 4.5 acres sold for development |
| Project Type | Affordable housing (50 townhomes) |
| Income Requirement | Must earn 80% of area median income (~$85,000 for a family of four) |
| Partnership | Collaboration with DreamKey Partners |
| Finalization Date | Expected in October |
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Additional Resources
- Church Leaders
- Charlotte Observer
- Spectrum Local News
- WSOC TV
- Charlotte Magazine
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Google Search: Charlotte housing crisis
- Google Scholar: Affordable housing initiatives
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Affordable Housing
- Google News: Affordable housing Charlotte
Author: HERE Charlotte
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