Belmont, North Carolina Development News

City Council Approves RFP for Downtown Property Development and Duke Energy Agreement

The City Council approved an RFP for professional advisory services for the approximately 11 acres recently acquired in the downtown area. The RFP aims to determine the best long-term strategy for the property by evaluating market demand, financial feasibility, development alternatives, and public investment requirements. The process will involve assembling a multidisciplinary team of experts. The RFP was advertised, proposals were to be received in late August, and a consultant was to be selected in September, followed by council approval of the consultant contract. This process does not commit the city to a specific development plan or developer but provides information for future decisions. The council also approved a Duke Energy Use Agreement and FK Permit related to a portion of the city's property, preserving the city's ability to develop a public paddling park and rowing facility. The approved improvements include a paddling and rowing dock, a boat ramp, and a small irrigation pump. The agreement has a 18-month construction window, with an option for a 12-month extension. The city is also revising its 2017 agreement with the Belmont Rowing Club to align with new regulations and to clarify operational responsibilities and public access requirements.