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Controversy Over Data Center Demolition & Publix Expansion: Charlotte's Hot Summer News
Controversy Over Data Center Demolition & Publix Expansion: Charlotte's Hot Summer News
Controversy Over Data Center Demolition & Publix Expansion: Charlotte's Hot Summer News
Don't miss out on Independence Day updates, a new farmer's market grand opening, where to beat the heat in Charlotte, and more exciting news in this week's newsletter!
The Queen City Scoop Team
Jul 2, 2026
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 City of Charlotte |
Charlotte residents will not experience any delays to their trash collection schedule due to the upcoming Independence Day holiday. Collection services will remain on their regular schedule, so residents should have their bins out on their usual collection day. This includes curbside trash, recycling, yard waste, and bulky item collections. Residents are reminded to set out their items by 6 a.m. on their scheduled collection day to ensure timely pickup. There will be no interruption in service despite the holiday. Read More... |
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Josh's Farmer's Market in Mooresville, North Carolina, has announced the grand opening of its permanent location. The celebration will feature live music, food trucks, and activities for children. The market offers a wide variety of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, meats, and other products. Customers can also enjoy homemade baked goods and flavored drinks. The new location aims to provide a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience for the community while supporting local farmers and businesses. Read More... |
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Charlotte is facing a dangerous summer heat dome, with temperatures soaring into the upper 90s and low 100s this week. The National Weather Service warns that the heat index could reach 109°F, and overnight lows may still stay above 80°F. Staying cool is crucial for safety and comfort.
Local families have affordable options to escape the heat. Mecklenburg County's outdoor pools at Cordelia and Double Oaks cost just $2 per resident, offering expanded hours due to Ramsey Creek Beach being closed by drought.
Free splash pads at parks like First Ward, Latta, and Veterans operate daily through Labor Day, perfect for quick relief—especially with young children.
Indoor facilities including Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center and Ray’s Splash Planet provide sun-safe swimming for a modest fee.
Remember to drink water, avoid outdoor exertion during peak hours, and check facility schedules before heading out.
Stay safe and stay cool, Charlotte! Read More... |
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The century-old Court Arcade at 725 E. Trade St. in Uptown Charlotte, an architectural relic designed by William H. Peeps, is set to be demolished for a new four-story data center from Digital Realty Trust.
Originally built in the 1920s, the building’s distinctive arches and skylit walkway offered a tangible link to Charlotte’s past.
Despite initial talks about preserving the historic facade, Digital Realty filed for full demolition in June 2026 following its $16 million purchase.
The move coincides with Charlotte’s newly approved data center moratorium, but the project was filed in time to evade new restrictions.
Because current zoning allows this “by-right,” the city may have no legal grounds to intervene.
The loss has sparked concern among preservation advocates and raises tense questions about Charlotte’s growth, historic identity, and the increasing impact of digital infrastructure on urban landscapes. Read More... |
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Publix Super Markets is looking to expand in Charlotte with a new 47,000-square-foot store in University City. The location, part of a larger redevelopment project, will also feature other stores like Dollar Tree and Gabe's. Publix's aggressive expansion in the Charlotte region is part of the supermarket battle for market share. The company already has plans for three other stores in Wesley Chapel, SouthPark, and Matthews. This move comes as Publix continues to solidify its presence in Charlotte, with recent store openings and property purchases. Charlotte's grocery scene is heating up, and Publix is making sure to stay in the game. Read More... |
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Olivelli Deli, the newest addition to Charlotte's NoDa neighborhood, is bringing back the nostalgia of a walk-up sandwich shop experience. Located in the former Reigning Doughnuts space on North Davidson Street, the menu features Italian-inspired sandwiches on house-baked rolls, breakfast sandwiches, and housemade soft serve. The restaurant group behind local favorites like Supperland and Haberdish has meticulously crafted each aspect of Olivelli Deli, from the bread recipe to the soft serve base. With no reservations necessary, this neighborhood window offers high-quality food in a straightforward and enjoyable setting. Visit for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and savor the simple pleasure of a well-made sandwich. Read More... |
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Seven years ago, Sherry Arlena Waters opened The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary in West Charlotte's Historic Camp Greene neighborhood. To celebrate this milestone, the tea bar is hosting a month-long celebration with live jazz, wellness workshops, and an anniversary bash on July 11. Named after her grandmothers, this intentional gathering space offers a third space between home and work, featuring a selection of 15 loose-leaf teas and local Black women bakers' pastries. The space also hosts community events like live music, restorative yoga, and open mic nights. Join the celebration and experience the serenity that The Pauline Tea-Bar Apothecary has cultivated over the past seven years. Read More... |
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