The $350 Million Development Coming to South Charlotte

A major new mixed-use project is underway in South Charlotte that could influence property values and neighborhood dynamics around Tom Short Road, Ballantyne, and Rea Farms.

What’s Happening

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) and Childress Klein Properties purchased 115 acres of the former Cato family farmland for $11.6M. The combined public and private investment for the project is estimated at $350 million.

Planned development includes:

• 917 total residential units
  
  • 682 apartments
  • 211 townhomes
  • 24 single-family homes
• A new CMS middle school
• Future retail/commercial space

The rezoning to allow this density was approved by Charlotte City Council in 2024.

Why It’s Significant for South Charlotte

This development is one of the largest new projects in the area and highlights continued growth pressure in South Charlotte — shifting open land toward higher-density, mixed-use communities.

What It Means for Your Property

For Nearby Homeowners
Potential Benefits

• More amenities and retail options nearby
• Infrastructure improvements funded by the developer
• A new middle school, helping relieve overcrowding
• Solid demand could support property values

Potential Downsides

• Increased traffic — estimates suggest thousands of additional daily vehicle trips
• Construction impacts over several years
• Change from low-density suburban character to a more urban feel

For Buyers

• More housing choices beyond traditional single-family homes
• Options may appeal to buyers priced out of pricier neighborhoods
• Still a desirable area — but be aware of long-term growth and traffic

For Investors

• This project signals continued growth and strong demand in South Charlotte
• Higher density and mixed-use trends are likely to continue
• Infrastructure improvements are developer-funded, not taxpayer-funded

Controversy & Community Response

Some neighbors opposed the project, arguing:

• Traffic congestion will worsen
• Local utilities and schools may feel the pressure
• “Affordable housing” claims don’t match likely rent levels, which are expected to be market rate
  
  

City planners supported approval because it aligns with Charlotte’s goals of housing diversity, smart growth, and infrastructure investment.

Bottom Line

The Cato Trails project marks a shift in how South Charlotte is developing: from open farmland to high-density, mixed-use neighborhoods.

If you own property here, change is coming — and it could influence everything from traffic and school capacity to local amenities and long-term property values.

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