Fishing for a River District update? Expect big changes downstream.

The first phase of the 1,400-acre development in west Charlotte is moving at a steady current with the construction of apartments and ~2,300 single-family homes now underway. The first move-ins are projected to begin as early as summer 2025.

First proposed in 2016, The River District is aimed at transforming mostly forested land west of Charlotte Douglas International Airport and I-85 into a residential and commercial hub — combining the beauty of the Catawba River with convenient proximity to Uptown Charlotte. Crescent Communities, the developer of the project, hopes the project generates more than $5 billion a year.

The River District's first neighborhood will be Westrow. Considered the "town center," Westrow will have amenities, a two-acre urban farm, and a potential grocery store. | Art rendering via Crescent Communities

Progress began in the spring with two areas currently under construction: West Boulevard Extension and Westrow. The extension will be an entrance point to Westrow, the upcoming town center of The River District.

Charlotte may be one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, but in the midst of this urban renaissance, the District looks to set itself apart from being another "development story" in the Queen City.

Upcoming outdoor recreation at The River District will include fishing, boating, cayaking, canoeing, and swimming spots along the Catawba River. | Photo via @theriverdist

Development plans aim to make the residential community compatible with the natural landscape. The River District team recently completed a bio-diversity study with Catawba Land Conservancy. It found 180+ species of animals and 217 plant species, leading to protected areas on the property for ongoing conservation.

Future amenities for residents and guests will include 30 miles of trails, a two-acre sustainable farm, an open-air farmer's market, and last but not least — the first public riverfront park in the City of Charlotte.

Editor's note: Every home will be pre-wired with 240-volt capacity in each garage for electric vehicles.