Next big development: the Observer property in uptown
The Story
The massive Charlotte Observer property in uptown will be purchased by Lincoln Harris real estate development firm, the Charlotte Observer reports.
Lincoln Harris planning to buy Charlotte Observer’s uptown site, sources say http://t.co/PXkJSBMztr pic.twitter.com/Ondxl4hEgk
— Charlotte Observer (@theobserver) January 7, 2015
The Facts
– The lot is huge by uptown standards: 9.4 acres. It encompasses the office, warehouse and parking. And it’s in a prime spot: Across the street from Bank of America stadium.
– Lincoln Harris hasn’t said what its plans are, but it will likely be a mix of residential, office and retail.
– The property could take a decade to develop.
– Deal could close by second quarter
– Unclear where Observer will relocate, although publisher Ann Caulkins has expressed a desire to stay in or close to uptown.
Newsies Weep
On a Facebook group of former and current O employees, here were some reactions:
– “Amazing…at one time 1000 people worked there. A thriving almost self contained business, now it’s in the way of ‘progress’.”
– “We MUST all have a HUGE party there before they knock it down!!”
– “Wait. Who gets the pink typewriter!??”
– “I knew it years ago the plan was to sell it. I hate to see it happening it was one of the best jobs I ever had.”
– “Sad day. I worked there for almost 46 years. Many friends made and great memories remain.”
– “Not seeing the Observer Building on that infamous corner is just mind blowing.”
C5’s Take
While the building has undoubtedly outlived its usefulness, it’s still bittersweet to think of it getting leveled.
Photo: Mark Hames / Charlotte Observer
This story was originally published January 7, 2015 at 1:18 AM with the headline "Next big development: the Observer property in uptown."