For many people the new Light Rail transit system here in Charlotte has been a novelty. Something that interests a wide range of people. Now everyone has taken a ride on the Light Rail at least once or twice, but not for the real reason it was created. People are riding it for entertainment and not for efficient affordable transportation.
In theory the Light Rail system is a wonderful idea. But it is only “truly” usable to the people who live within a short distance of a Light Rail stop. Most of the people who can afford to live by a light rail do not necessarily need affordable transportation. Where it is definitely a convenience to some, it isn’t serving the people who could benefit the most.
Hopefully all of that will change with “New apartments going up along the south-corridor light rail line. It will be the city’s first affordable, transit-oriented rental housing, developers say.” - Charlotte Observer
Affordable Apartments Planned Near Transit Line
Posted on: Thursday, 21 June 2007, 18:00 CDT By Kirsten Valle, The Charlotte Observer, N.C. Jun. 21–South Oak Crossing, a $14 million project with 192 units, is being built on about 10 acres near Old Pineville and Arrowood roads.
The complex is within walking distance of the new Arrowood light rail station. The south-corridor rail line, which stretches about 10 miles from Pineville to uptown, is scheduled to begin service in November.
Most of the units will be priced lower than market value for residents who qualify, based on their incomes, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Housing Partnership, which is developing the apartments.
Ninety-two units will be rented at market price.
“The big thing is that you need to make sure the folks who use transit can get to it,” said David Howard, a Housing Partnership spokesman.
Eventually, the complex will attract residents who will use the light rail to get between their homes and jobs, he said.
South Oak Crossing will offer two- and three-bedroom units, from 925 to 1,162 square feet. The complex also features amenities such as a pool, fitness center, business center and movie room.
“Affordable” two-bedroom units will cost $615 to $825 a month, while affordable, three-bedroom units will cost $700 to $925 a month.
About 20 units will be rented cheaper for residents who qualify, based on their income, Howard said.
Potential residents must pass criminal background checks and meet other standards to live there, he said.
Construction started in December, and the project should be finished in about a year, said Sheila Neal of Carocon, the general contractor.
Howard said the first tenants should be able to move in by November.
Other high-density, transit-oriented communities are springing up along the light rail line.
Steve Harris of Harris Development Group recently announced plans to bring more than 2,500 townhomes, condominiums and apartments to the area in two high-density, transit-oriented communities that will adjoin the Interstate 485 and Arrowood transit stations.
Homes will range from the low $100,000s to about $350,000 each, with apartments renting for about $750 to $1,000 per month.
The Housing Partnership is planning a second affordable housing development near the future Scaleybark rail station, Howard said.
Howard expects development to follow the light rail but said rising land prices will make affordable projects rare. The last appraisal on the South Oak Crossing site showed that the land had more than tripled in value, he said.
South Oak Crossing is being built with money from the city of Charlotte, tax credits, loans and other sources.
The Housing Partnership is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes affordable housing for low- and moderate-income families.
— Kirsten Valle: 704-358-6043
Want to Know More?
South Oak Crossing, 192 rental units, is going up on 10 acres at 7609 Old Pineville Road. Details or leasing information: 866-860-1905 or www.cmhprentals.com.
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The NoDa School of Arts is a non-profit based in Charlotte, NC which provides high quality performance and fine art training to urban youth who otherwise would not have access to the arts
The cast consists of 32 children. Some have been with The NoDa School of Arts since it first opened in 2005 and for others, this will be their first time performing. Performances will be held August 8th & 9th at Piedmont Middle School. For further information and ticket sales go to www.NoDaSchoolofArts.org or call the Box Office at 704-277-1843.
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