Research & Plans

Research is creating new knowledge.

There are two area plans that provide the framework for future development in University City. The University City Transit Station Area Plan and the University Research Park plans were adopted in 2015 and 2010 respectively. University City Partners funded and orchestrated the first area plan for the Municipal Service District (MSD) in 2007. The University City Transit Station Area Plan was updated by the City in May 2015.

The University Research Park Area Plan was also funded and orchestrated by University City Partners and adopted by the City in 2010. University City Partners also supports the implementation of the UNC Charlotte Master Plan and J.W. Clay Station Area Master Plan. These plans support the development of a walkable, mixed-use downtown in the heart of University City anchored by UNC Charlotte and University Research Park.

Active projects and petitions

University City has ongoing development projects and rezoning petitions. The tool below shows the transportation infrastructure investments as well as private land developments recently completed, under construction, or in permitting and planning.

Brochures, Flyers, Reports

The University City Key Projects and Vision Summary Brochure is a short recap of key development projects and the vision for University City.

Our Annual Report (2024) is released as an end of year review of the budget, program of work, accomplishments and our priorities for the next fiscal year.

Major Employers
Quality of Life
Tomorrow’s Urban Center
University City Area Plan
University City Demographics
University Research Park Plan
McCullough Station Area Vision Plan
University City Annual Report
JW Clay Station Plan

News

Juneteenth Art Fest 2025: A Day of Joy, Art, and Community Vibes!

– by Janelle Goodrich The sun was shining (and yes, it was hot enough to melt a slushie!), but that didn’t stop University City from showing up and showing out for the 2025 Juneteenth Art Festival. From colorful art displays to foot-tapping live performances and...

Sunshine & Trail Time: Your July Passport to Outdoor Joy

 – By Janelle Goodrich Step onto the Path… Close your eyes for a moment and picture this: you’re standing beneath a cathedral of oaks, patches of sunlight flickering across the trail like confetti. A hush settles over the woods, broken only by the chatter of...

NINER SPOTLIGHT: Striking Gold: Tim Albin Takes the Helm of Charlotte 49ers Football

Charlotte Athletics has tapped Tim Albin, fresh off a Mid-American Conference championship run at Ohio, to become the 49ers’ fourth full-time head football coach. Albin compiled a 33-19 record in Athens, engineering three straight 10-win seasons—the most successful...

Beyond the Balance Sheet: Marcus Smith, Our New Treasurer with Big-Block Vision

 – by Janelle Goodrich We’re kicking off our Meet the Board Series with Marcus Smith, Bank of America relationship manager, newly elected Treasurer, and incoming chair of the Finance Committee. Marcus isn’t just a numbers guy—he’s a growth architect who believes...

Culture Meets Commerce: Juneteenth Art Fest Sparks Economic Growth in University City

University City’s Juneteenth Art Fest was more than a commemoration of freedom—it was a powerful expression of economic empowerment and cultural pride. Held at University Place, the free festival drew thousands of residents and visitors from across the Charlotte metro...

Flournoy Development Strengthens Growth in University Research Park

University City Partners (UCP) proudly supports the Flournoy development in University Research Park—a thoughtfully designed multifamily residential community that advances the district’s vision for a connected, vibrant, and inclusive University City. Located along...

Public Safety, Clean Streets, and a Community That Cares

By Janelle Goodrich, Director of Operations, University City Partners After more than 25 years of living in the "suburbs" of University City and over 16 years working with University City Partners, I’ve seen our community grow in ways that still amaze me. I’ve...

Honoring Shane Hockensmith and Giant University Bikes – A Legacy of Movement in University City

For over 27 years, Giant University City has been more than a neighborhood bike shop—it has been a trusted resource and gathering place for University City’s active and diverse community. At the heart of it all has been Shane Hockensmith, a dedicated small business...

Building a Business Ecosystem: How UCP is Fueling Small Business Growth in University City

University City Partners (@UnivCityCLT) is more than a supporter of small businesses—it’s a strategic builder of a connected, thriving local business ecosystem. Through intentional funding, partnerships, and visibility campaigns, UCP is elevating entrepreneurs,...

University City Farmers Market Kicks Off the 2025 Season!

University City Farmers Market returns for another exciting season — bringing farm-fresh goods, artisan products, and vibrant community spirit to the heart of University City! Join us every Saturday from May through October, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, at NOVEL University...