High-Rise Condos coming to Ballantyne by late 2009

Developers at Ballantyne Village are planning the area’s first high-rise condos. The 14-story building would be built on top of the four-level parking deck there now. It would also have additional levels of parking and seven stories of 120 high-end units that take advantage of the views with windows and balconies, said Bob Bruner, a principal with Ballantyne Village.

The parking deck’s foundation has already been structured to accommodate a 14-story building.

“We’ll be … the only spot out there for high-rise condominiums, for people who want to live that lifestyle,” said Bruner. “We’re bringing an urban feel to a suburban area.”

Groundbreaking on the still-unnamed project will depend on how fast units sell when they go to market later this year, Bruner said, but the project is expected to be finished late 2009. He said details on costs and unit sizes are being determined.

Amenities include the same fiber optic technology available throughout the stores and offices in the village, which includes high-speed network wiring for phones, computers and video equipment. Also planned is a fifth-floor pool and garden area.

“The biggest amenity will be right at the foot of the village,” Bruner said. “We’ve had a great reception from people who understand that and would love to live there.”

It’s the latest phase in the 10-acre village at Ballantyne Commons Parkway and Johnston Road, which has a movie theater, restaurants, retail and business space. Recruiting is under way to fill the village’s 18,000-plus square feet of office space, available above Table and Villa Antonio restaurants, Daily Chef, Moe’s and Miss Priss, said Marla Sessoms of business development and leasing.

Future construction plans include opening a rooftop bar on the top of the 100-foot Ballantyne Village tower — site of the signature crown — by spring 2008, Bruner said. Future phases include a hotel with up to 200 rooms; enclosed parking buildings; and more office and condos.

Story from: Charlotte Observer – by Celeste Smith