Matthews, NC, January 26, 2026
Matthews, NC is experiencing significant expansion, fueled by local entrepreneurs and strategic developments. Notable new businesses, such as Curry Gate and Enzo’s Italian Market, are enhancing the town’s culinary scene. The Envision Matthews Plan and major projects, including the Matthews Gateway Project, are reshaping the city’s landscape, promoting economic growth and a vibrant community atmosphere. With a focus on supporting new ventures while maintaining its unique character, Matthews is setting a model for sustainable development.
Charlotte, NC – Matthews is experiencing a remarkable period of expansion, transforming into a vibrant hub for commerce and community life. This growth is driven by the determination of local entrepreneurs and strategic investments that are reshaping the town’s landscape. The thoughtful development and supportive environment are fostering a dynamic atmosphere for both residents and businesses.
This wave of progress in Matthews showcases how local innovation and careful planning can lead to substantial economic growth, job creation, and enhanced community well-being. The town’s commitment to a balanced approach, encouraging new ventures while maintaining its distinct character, positions it as a model for sustainable development within the greater Charlotte region.
A Culinary and Entertainment Renaissance
Matthews is rapidly becoming a destination for diverse dining and entertainment options, reflecting a surge in entrepreneurial activity. Recent additions include the opening of a new location for Curry Gate, an Indian and Nepalese food chain known for its flavorful cuisine. Another exciting development is Enzo’s Italian Market, which is set to expand into a larger downtown Matthews space, offering fresh pasta, mozzarella, gelato, and espresso stations. The town has also welcomed a third location for Seemingly Overzealous, a dairy-free and allergy-friendly ice cream shop, further diversifying local offerings. These businesses not only provide new choices for residents but also contribute to the unique appeal of Matthews, drawing visitors and enhancing the local economy.
Strategic Development: The Matthews Gateway and Beyond
Significant development projects are underway, guided by the Envision Matthews Plan, which lays out a comprehensive strategy for growth, transportation, zoning, and conservation. This plan is designed to create walkable corridors and protect the character of existing neighborhoods, providing a clear framework for developers.
A cornerstone of this development is the Matthews Gateway Project, a nearly 64-acre mixed-use development located on East John Street, conveniently accessible from Interstate 485. This project is anticipated to introduce new shopping, dining, and other amenities to the town. Plans for the Matthews Gateway development include a 13,500-square-foot grocery store, with a major national specialty grocer confirming a store is planned for Matthews.
Beyond the Gateway, the NRP Brigman Road Project further illustrates Matthews’ growth trajectory. This 15-acre mixed-use development features 377 housing units and 19,000 square feet of commercial space, alongside options for affordable housing. These developments underscore the town’s strategic approach to expanding its residential and commercial footprint while addressing diverse community needs.
Cultivating a Pro-Business Environment
Matthews’ economic growth is partly attributable to an environment that supports new businesses and private investment. The clarity provided to developers by the Envision Matthews Plan helps streamline the development process, fostering predictable conditions for commercial ventures. The town also offers various commercial real estate opportunities, appealing to service-oriented businesses and retail establishments, particularly given the local population’s higher income levels. This combination of strategic planning and market demand makes Matthews an attractive location for those looking to invest and grow a Charlotte NC business.
Community-Driven Enhancements and Infrastructure
The town’s development isn’t solely focused on commercial expansion; it also emphasizes community well-being and infrastructure improvements. An example of this is the sidewalk extension project on North Ames Street. In collaboration with the Centralina Community Economic Development team, and supported by the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program, this project significantly improved pedestrian safety and accessibility. The enhancements included additional street parking, which benefits local businesses such as cafes, restaurants, bars, and breweries by making them more accessible to residents and visitors. These initiatives highlight the importance of community partnerships in fostering sustainable Matthews economic growth.
The Enduring Entrepreneurial Spirit
The influx of new businesses in Matthews reflects a broader trend of robust entrepreneurial spirit across North Carolina. Organizations like NC IDEA, an economic development foundation, play a significant role in nurturing this spirit. Statewide, NC IDEA has provided grants and mentorship, helping to launch 615 companies and creating over 5,000 jobs. Impressively, 71% of these NC IDEA-supported firms are still in business Statewide, demonstrating the resilience and innovation characteristic of North Carolina entrepreneurs. This strong foundation of entrepreneurial success throughout the state provides a promising backdrop for the burgeoning Matthews small business scene and contributes to overall Mecklenburg County development.
Matthews is clearly on an upward trajectory, propelled by a combination of entrepreneurial zeal, strategic urban planning, and committed community involvement. The continued emergence of new businesses and well-planned developments promises a vibrant future for this thriving Charlotte suburb.
To ensure this positive momentum continues, residents are encouraged to support local establishments and remain engaged in discussions about the town’s economic future. By actively participating, the community can help shape a prosperous and dynamic Matthews for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthews, NC’s Economic Growth
- What major development projects are planned for Matthews, NC?
- The Matthews Gateway Project, a nearly 64-acre mixed-use development on East John Street, is planned to bring new shopping, dining, and a national specialty grocer, including a 13,500-square-foot grocery store. Additionally, the NRP Brigman Road Project is a 15-acre mixed-use development that will include 377 housing units and 19,000 square feet of commercial space, along with affordable housing options.
- What new businesses have recently opened or are planning to open in Matthews, NC?
- Curry Gate, an Indian and Nepalese food chain, opened a new location in Matthews. Enzo’s Italian Market is set to open a larger space in downtown Matthews, offering fresh pasta, mozzarella, gelato, and espresso stations. Seemingly Overzealous, a dairy-free and allergy-friendly ice cream shop, opened a third location in Matthews. A national specialty grocer is also confirmed to be opening a store in the Matthews Gateway Project.
- How is Matthews, NC, managing its economic growth and development?
- Matthews is managing its growth through the Envision Matthews Plan, which guides development, transportation, zoning, and conservation to create walkable corridors and protect neighborhood character. This plan provides clarity for developers and supports a pro-business environment.
- What are some examples of community infrastructure improvements in Matthews, NC?
- A sidewalk extension project on North Ames Street, supported by the Centralina Community Economic Development team and HUD’s Community Development Block Grant program, improved pedestrian safety and accessibility to local businesses. This project also added street parking to benefit local establishments.
- How does entrepreneurship contribute to North Carolina’s economy?
- Statewide, organizations like NC IDEA have significantly contributed to entrepreneurship by launching 615 companies and creating over 5,000 jobs. Notably, 71% of these NC IDEA-supported firms are still in business Statewide, highlighting the robust entrepreneurial landscape.
Key Features of Matthews, NC’s Economic Landscape
| Feature | Description | Impact on Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| Envision Matthews Plan | Comprehensive strategy guiding growth, transportation, zoning, and conservation. Creates walkable corridors and protects neighborhood character. | Provides clarity for developers and fosters a predictable business environment. |
| Matthews Gateway Project | Nearly 64-acre mixed-use development on East John Street. Includes new shopping, dining, and a confirmed national specialty grocer. | Attracts new businesses and enhances retail and dining options for residents. |
| NRP Brigman Road Project | 15-acre mixed-use development with 377 housing units and 19,000 square feet of commercial space. Includes affordable housing options. | Expands residential capacity and provides diverse housing and commercial opportunities. |
| New Culinary and Retail Businesses | Recent openings include Curry Gate, Enzo’s Italian Market, and Seemingly Overzealous. | Diversifies local offerings, enhances community appeal, and contributes to the local economy. |
| Community Infrastructure Improvements | Sidewalk extension project on North Ames Street improved pedestrian safety and access, and added street parking. | Supports local businesses and enhances the overall quality of life for residents. |
| Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (State-level) | NC IDEA has launched 615 companies Statewide, created over 5,000 jobs Statewide, and boasts a 71% success rate for supported firms Statewide. | Provides a strong foundation and supportive network for local North Carolina entrepreneurs, including those in Matthews. |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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