As urban centers continue to grow, people are flocking to the suburbs, attracted to their lower cost of living, access to quality schools, and diverse lifestyle amenities. However, they do not want to forgo the conveniences and experiences afforded by urban living. This shift is creating demand for retrofitting suburban infrastructure and rethinking systems and land use that was not intended for dense development. When done right, retrofitting suburbia presents the opportunity to lay a foundation of adaptable infrastructure that supports sustained growth.
The Urban Centers of Tomorrow
To address this growing trend, we take a holistic approach to infrastructure improvements, considering solutions that will not only increase long-term capacity and functionality, but support a rich, urban center. Such is the case with Ballantyne Reimagined, where a traditional suburb is being redeveloped into a vibrant destination, proving the value of thoughtful suburban retrofitting.
In South Charlotte, Ballantyne Reimagined is transforming 500 acres of sprawling golf course and dated office park into a dense, mixed-use community. Situated within Ballantyne, one of the region’s largest and most successful neighborhoods, Ballantyne Reimagined is creating a true urban core for the community, integrating new, dense uses. Key to this transformation is a comprehensive approach to infrastructure improvements designed to accommodate the next 50 years of growth.
Laying the Groundwork for the Next 50 Years
The foundation of a fully functional urban center begins with below-ground infrastructure. At Ballantyne Reimagined, the site’s stormwater, water, sewer, and utility systems are designed to increase capacity and accommodate denser development. This expanded capacity enables the creation of new commercial nodes, multi-modal connections, and public open spaces.
Ballantyne Reimagined is anchored by a lifestyle district, The Bowl, which features a contemporary development program, including retail, entertainment, and residential uses. To create a seamless user experience, the site was completely leveled to increase accessibility. A streetscape with flushed curbed and protected planters to separate cars and people, improving pedestrian safety.
Pedestrian connectivity extends beyond The Bowl into the greater community with a system of multi-modal trails and roadways. Roads are designed to ‘Complete Streets’ standards and accommodate buffered bike lanes and protected intersections. Over 20 miles of trails, including repositioned golf cart tunnels, support all modes of active transportation. These improvements support a multi-modal environment where people can explore Ballantyne Reimagined by foot, bicycle, and car.
At Ballantyne Reimagined, the community gathers at Stream Park, which is beautifully situated on the former 18th hole of the golf course. This reimagining of land use not only meets the growing demand for urban-centric amenities but also positions Ballantyne as a desirable place to live. Additionally, the site’s stormwater system, marrying form and function, manages overflow during rain events through a retention pond and restored stream at Stream Park. This provides essential flood storage and serves as signature visual and environmental amenities, enhancing the arrival experience to Ballantyne Reimagined.
The future of suburbia lies in its ability to adapt and evolve. By embracing comprehensive infrastructure improvements and innovative land use strategies, we can create thriving urban centers within traditional suburban environments. These redeveloped communities not only meet the demands for urban amenities but also enhance the quality of life for existing and future residents, demonstrating that the true potential of a community can be realized through adaptable infrastructure and thoughtful programming.
