Northwest Corridor Revitalization Initiative
The Historic West End has contributed much to the history, cultural vibrancy and economic livelihood of the Queen City. The Soul of the Northwest Corridor is at the center of the heartbeat of Charlotte, and JCSU’s history and legacy are intermingled with the rhythm of the Historic West End.
JCSU is committed to servant leadership and civic engagement. We are a learning community that is passionate about its responsibility to serve. Therefore, in 2008, under the direction of our 13th president, Dr. Ronald L. Carter, JCSU re-affirmed its commitment to the Historic West End and its residents.
The University has taken a leadership role in the revitalization efforts of the Northwest Corridor. JCSU is serving as the facilitator and convener, as well as lending intellectual capital and financial resources to the revitalization initiative - a broad-based collaborative effort to enhance the quality of life and stimulate the economy of the Beatties Ford Road/Northwest Corridor.
The Northwest Corridor is a major transportation route from uptown Charlotte and serves as the gateway for 37 neighborhoods, many of which are historic. In leading this effort, JCSU created the Beatties Ford Road Task Force, a multisector group, which includes local businesses, developers, residents, nonprofit organizations, along with the city of Charlotte and others to develop and implement strategies that will stimulate the economy and enhance the quality of life for Historic West End residents.
JCSU, utilizing its facility needs, campus Master Plan, input from area residents and strategies adopted by the Beatties Ford Road Task Force, initiated the following projects to assist with the revitalization efforts:
- Renovation of the old Griffin Tire Company to a new teaching facility for the visual and performing arts, known as the JCSU Arts Factory. Renovation completed in 2010
. - Innovative community planning model utilized. Collaborated with GALLUP Polls, Inc. to investigate resident attachment, what community qualities drive attachment and how that attachment relates to local economic growth. The study, known as the Soul of the Northwest Corridor, was completed in 2010.
- Free alternative transportation service provided to corridor residents and students. JCSU collaborated with Center City Partners and CATS to bring the Gold Rush trolley service to Beatties Ford Road. Began February 14, 2011.
- Renovation of a historic structure, the George E. Davis House. The renovated facility will serve as the new Foster Village Network Center. Groundbreaking held in 2011.
- Design and installation of a public art project at the underpass of I-77 and West Trade Street. This creative lighting project, “Passing Through Light,” is located at the primary vehicular entryway into uptown Charlotte along West Trade/Beatties Ford Road. Project completed in 2012.
- Creation of Mosaic Village at West End. This is a mixed-use development consisting of residential, retail and commercial space. Project completed in 2012.
- Development of Sustainability Village, an innovative living-learning prototype for students. The new program will integrate academic coursework, research, service learning and experiential education opportunities to enhance student understanding of sustainable development, community food systems and alternative lifestyles that promote conservation. Will open in late 2012.