Good morning, this is Charlotte Local Pulse for Thursday, May 15. We’re starting off with breaking news overnight, as fire crews are still at the scene of a large industrial fire in north Charlotte near Statesville Avenue. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported, but expect some detours and delays if you’re traveling through that area this morning as crews continue their work. In city hall news, leaders are grappling with the ongoing child care crisis as local advocates push for over two hundred million dollars in subsidies to keep daycares open and help working parents. There’s also a new call for sixty million dollars in support so child care workers can afford care for their own kids. This could mean some big changes coming to how our families and caregivers are supported in Charlotte.
Weather-wise, we’re waking up to mild temperatures and a chance of light rain through the afternoon. That might put a damper on some outdoor events, so keep an umbrella handy if you’re planning to head to the campuses around UNC Charlotte or out to the parks. The rest of the week looks a little drier, but we’re expecting more clouds than sun.
In business and development, big moves are happening. Saussy Burbank is breaking ground on its first thirteen homes in The River District, with starting prices just under eight hundred thousand dollars. Over in University City, the 28269 zip code leads the county with more than three hundred new real estate listings this quarter, with average home prices coming in at just under four hundred thousand. Meanwhile, Matthews is gearing up for a new Trader Joe’s, though the exact location and opening date are still under wraps. The Iron District at the edge of South End is also sparking interest, with plans for office, retail, and up to five hundred new residential units.
Charlotte’s job market gets a boost with the announcement that HSP US, a German company, is set to open its first American manufacturing plant right here in the city. They’ll be creating specialized parts for high-voltage transformers, bringing new jobs and investment to our community.
Turning to sports, the eyes of the collegiate track world are on Charlotte today. The American Outdoor Track and Field Championships kick off at the Irwin Belk Track, with events running through Saturday and coverage on ESPN Plus. In local schools, we’re shouting out the Hickory High students and community rallying together after two students were struck by a vehicle near Second Street. They’re recovering, and the support from fellow students and staff has been inspiring.
In crime news, police are investigating a fatal vehicle crash in the South Division, and detectives are still following leads in last week’s homicide on Archdale Drive in Steele Creek. We send our thoughts to those affected.
To close, here’s a feel-good story—more than two dozen local companies are working together to revitalize Symphony Park, and some are committing major investments to make the uptown arts scene even more vibrant.
This has been Charlotte Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
