Architect’s rendering of new auto dealership

Feb. 2. By Dave Vieser. Lake Norman Chrysler Dodge Jeep has down-sized plans for a new showroom and mixed-use development on Chartown Drive just south of Life Fellowship Church. Based on conversation with neighbors, the veteran dealer removed plans for an off-road vehicle testing area. Owner Jack Salman also agreed to keep test drives out of residential neighborhoods.

Hearing No. 1 of 2

The Town Board hearing last night was the first official public review of the $17 million project. The next step for the proposal is a review by the town Planning Board on a yet-to-be determined date.

SALZMAN

“I’m glad to hear that the testing area has been removed,” said neighbor Melanie Reeder, explaining that it was a concern to residents.

50-foot buffer

The 30-acre site faces I-77 and backs up to woods behind residential properties. The project would retain a 50-foot buffer as well as the natural habitat.

The Salzmans got a thumbs-up from a number of neighbors for meeting with them and reviewing their concerns in a courteous manner.

What’s planned: A 50,000 square-foot new-car dealership, a personal watercraft dealership and office space.

New jobs: 75, then growing to 100.

Annual salaries: Roughly $3.5 million in the first 90 days of opening

Completion: Approximately August of 2022, if the rezoning is approved.

Existing facility on Torrence Chapel Road: It will be devoted to used cars.

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Also at the Feb. 1 Town Board meeting, commissioners conducted the second and final public hearing on a rezoning request by MVP Properties to construct a medical/office facility on approximately 1.76 acres located on North Zion Avenue near the Antiquity neighborhood. No opposition was expressed at the hearing. A final decision is expected at the board’s next meeting on February.