Site plan for commercial project on W. Catawba

Oct. 9. The Catawba Commons retail project, planned for the north side of West Catawba Avenue just east of Chick-fil-A , was unanimously approved by the Cornelius Town Board at their Oct. 7 meeting. Prior to the vote, it was also announced that an additional turning lane will be built for westbound motorists wishing to access the new buildings.

The project will be built on a 4.3 acre plot previously occupied by a now closed First Community Bank branch.

The new structure is expected to have two restaurants, one on each end, and retail or medical offices between. The proposed development plan also includes a second building farther away from Catawba, also about 6,700 square feet.

At the Oct. 7 meeting, commissioners questioned Attorney Robert Irvin representing owner FHNC, about their development plans. “Our current plan is to build the front structure first,” said Irvin. “We will monitor market conditions and make a decision on the timing for building the rear structure later on.”

Emphasis on preserving trees was a major element in the conditions approved by the town.

All significant trees within the property wooded area, as identified on the rezoning plan, must be retained. Any trees requiring removal due to utility installations or similar improvements are to be replaced at a 3:1 ratio. All tree removals must be approved by the town.