Huntersville, North Carolina, January 9, 2026
A proposed mixed-use development in Huntersville, North Carolina, featuring 259 residential units and commercial spaces, is stirring debate about the town’s ability to handle its rapid growth and infrastructure demands. Residents express concerns over potential traffic congestion on Old Statesville Road, while local businesses see opportunities for increased foot traffic. A public hearing is set for February 3, as the town evaluates its capacity to accommodate the projected population increase.
Huntersville Faces Intensifying Debate Over Major Mixed-Use Development Amid Rapid Growth
Huntersville, North Carolina – A new mixed-use development proposal in Huntersville has become the focal point of a growing debate, raising significant questions about the town’s ability to manage its swift expansion and the capacity of its existing infrastructure. The project, which includes plans for 259 residential units and commercial spaces, is set to undergo a crucial public hearing in the near future.
Details of the Proposed Development
The developer, High Street District Development Inc., a subsidiary of Dallas-based Trammell Crow Co., has submitted plans to rezone more than 11 acres of land along Old Statesville Road. This area is currently a two-lane corridor and the proposal, known as Old Statesville Road Mixed-Use, involves replacing existing structures such as a greenhouse and accessory buildings.
Community Concerns Regarding Infrastructure
The primary concern voiced by many residents centers on the potential for increased traffic congestion. Old Statesville Road, the site of the proposed development, is already reported by residents to experience regular bottlenecks. Some residents express doubts that the current infrastructure is adequately expanding to accommodate the growing population. While some local business owners anticipate increased foot traffic and opportunities for their establishments, they also acknowledge the valid concerns about heightened strain on an already busy roadway.
Next Steps in the Review Process
The Huntersville Planning Board is scheduled to hold a public comment session for this proposal on February 3. Following this, any recommendation from the Planning Board will advance the project towards a final decision by the town leaders. The Huntersville Board of Commissioners had previously considered scheduling this public hearing on January 5.
Broader Context of Rapid Growth in Huntersville and the Charlotte Area
Huntersville continues to be recognized as one of the fastest-growing towns within the Charlotte metropolitan area. Data indicates that the town’s population increased by approximately 3 percent from 2022 to 2023, reaching about 65,000 residents. Projections suggest the population could exceed 106,000 by 2040.
Regional and Nationwide Growth Trends
The broader Charlotte metropolitan area is also experiencing substantial growth. A recent study identified Charlotte as the fourth fastest-growing metro area nationwide in 2025, based on a significant net gain of one-way U-Haul customers. North Carolina as a state also saw a considerable influx, with a net migration of over 58,000 people in 2025. This regional expansion is further supported by strong economic development. Charlotte recorded its best year for business recruitment in a decade during 2025, attracting over $424 million in investments and creating 3,880 new jobs. City leaders are committed to maintaining this momentum into 2026 through enhanced transit initiatives and support for small businesses.
Other Significant Developments in Huntersville
Beyond the current mixed-use proposal, Huntersville is home to other major development projects. This includes a more than $50 million, 465,036-square-foot industrial development known as AXIAL Commerce Station, with an anticipated completion in late 2026. The town also continues to see a high volume of new residential construction, with the average listing price for new homes in Huntersville around $628,000. The Huntersville Town Board recently supported an $80 million Lake Norman mega-development situated near a proposed Red Line commuter rail station.
Challenges and Ongoing Infrastructure Demands
The rapid influx of residents and commercial enterprises in Huntersville places considerable demands on the town’s existing infrastructure, impacting roads, first responder services, and potentially educational facilities. The town’s Fiscal Year 2025 budget faced a notable funding shortfall while simultaneously addressing various capital improvement projects. Traffic impact remains a consistent concern across numerous development discussions in the area.
Furthermore, home building activity was lower in 2023, partly attributed to concerns about sewer capacity, alongside a scarcity of available lots and infrastructure. In contrast, commercial growth experienced substantial increases during the same period. It is important to note that North Carolina law permits development moratoria only under very specific conditions, such as a failing wastewater facility, and not for issues like crowded schools or traffic congestion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main point of debate in Huntersville?
What is the main point of debate in Huntersville?
A proposed mixed-use development in Huntersville, North Carolina, is sparking significant debate among residents and officials, highlighting ongoing concerns about whether the town’s infrastructure can support its rapid growth.
What does the proposed development include?
What does the proposed development include?
Plans involve rezoning over 11 acres along Old Statesville Road for a mixed-use development that includes 259 residential units and commercial space.
What are residents’ primary concerns about the development?
What are residents’ primary concerns about the development?
Residents are primarily worried about increased traffic congestion on Old Statesville Road, which they report already experiences bottlenecks, and whether infrastructure development is keeping pace with the increasing population.
When is the public hearing for the Huntersville development proposal?
When is the public hearing for the Huntersville development proposal?
The Huntersville Planning Board is scheduled to hold a public comment session on the proposal on February 3.
Is Huntersville experiencing significant growth?
Is Huntersville experiencing significant growth?
Yes, Huntersville is identified as one of the Charlotte area’s fastest-growing towns, with its population increasing by about 3% from 2022 to 2023 to approximately 65,000, and expected to reach over 106,000 by 2040.
How is the Charlotte metropolitan area performing in terms of growth?
How is the Charlotte metropolitan area performing in terms of growth?
The broader Charlotte metropolitan area was the fourth fastest-growing metro area in the nation in 2025, based on a net gain of one-way U-Haul customers.
Key Features of the Huntersville Development Debate
| Feature | Details | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Development Type | Mixed-use development with residential and commercial spaces. | Local |
| Residential Units Proposed | 259 residential units. | Local |
| Location | Over 11 acres along Old Statesville Road, Huntersville, North Carolina. | Local |
| Primary Concern | Increased traffic congestion and infrastructure capacity. | Local |
| Public Hearing Date | February 3 (Huntersville Planning Board). | Local |
| Huntersville Population Growth (2022-2023) | Approx. 3% increase to 65,000 residents. | Local |
| Projected Huntersville Population (2040) | Over 106,000 residents. | Local |
| Charlotte Metro Area Growth (2025) | 4th fastest-growing metro area nationwide. | Nationwide |
| North Carolina Net Migration (2025) | Over 58,000 newcomers. | State-level |
| Industrial Development in Huntersville | AXIAL Commerce Station (465,036 sq ft, over $50 million, late 2026 delivery). | Local |
| Legality of Development Moratoria | Only under limited conditions (e.g., failing wastewater facility), not for traffic or school crowding. | State-level |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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