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Author: Patty Drummond

October 9, 2024 In Announcements & News, Press Releases

CREW Charlotte Announces 2024 Impact Award Winners

Join CREW in celebrating our 2024 Impact Award winners at a reception on November 12!

Impact Award Honorees

The following awards will be given:
Emerging Leaders – Hannah Breed, Urban Design Partners
Carrie Sharp Power Connector – Barbara Briccotto, Progressive Companies
Career Advancement for Women – Mary Wilken, Insite Properties
Entrepreneurial Spirit – Ashley Cooper and Caitlin McCain, Cooper + McCain
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion – Allison Simpson, Primax Properties
Community Project Impact – for profit – Crescent Communities and Nuveen Real Estate for One Independence Center
Community Project Impact – non profit – The Ella B. Scarborough Community Resource Center
Creative Design – LS3P for Ten30 Corporate Campus
Circle of Excellence – Nancy Olah, Nancy Olah Law

 

 

The Mint Museum Uptown
5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
$125 Members/$150 Guests
$1,500 – Table Host (table of 8)

 

Register Now
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September 10, 2024 In Announcements & News

Bryan Johnson Rejoins CBRE

CBRE announced today that industry veteran Bryan Johnson has rejoined the company as Americas Healthcare Leader for its Advisory & Transaction Services line of business.

Mr. Johnson, a seasoned real estate professional with extensive healthcare experience, will lead CBRE’s healthcare growth and client service strategy. His diverse background spans all corners of healthcare real estate, including roles in brokerage, outsourcing, finance, and market leadership. GlobeSt.com recognized him as a Top Healthcare Real Estate Influencer in 2020.

“Healthcare remains an important growth sector for our business, and Bryan’s deep experience will enhance CBRE’s ability to deliver the specialized services and expertise our healthcare clients require,” said Manish Kashyap, Global President of Advisory & Transaction Services.

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Mr. Johnson returns to CBRE after serving as executive managing director and market leader for Colliers’ North Carolina. Previously, he was a leader in CBRE’s GWS Healthcare Solutions group, where he helped lead the company’s efforts to grow the GWS Healthcare business and provide strategic solutions to healthcare clients nationwide.

“Healthcare is at a pivotal stage with the rapid evolution of technology and the focus of delivering empathetic care,” said Mr. Johnson. “I am eager to combine my passion for healthcare with CBRE’s people, products and services by creating real estate solutions for the healthcare community.”

About CBRE Group, Inc.
CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2023 revenue). The company has more than 130,000 employees (including Turner & Townsend employees) serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves a diverse range of clients with an integrated suite of services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com.

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August 13, 2024 In Luncheon Summary

CREW’s August Luncheon – Fireside Chat with Laura Mae Martin, Executive Productivity Advisor at Google

Submitted by Julie Pruett, Marlboro Development Team

Laura Mae Martin, Executive Productivity Advisor at Google, joined CREW Charlotte to discuss her book UPTIME: A Practical Guide to Productivity and Wellbeing. Notably, she is one of the first women to author a productivity book, as the top 20 productivity books are predominantly written by men. During her talk, she shared several tips and tricks on how to accomplish more while maintaining well-being.

UPTIME is divided into five sections: “What to Do,” “When to Do It,” “Where to Do It,” “How to Do It Well,” and “How to Live Well While Doing It All.” Martin emphasized the importance of setting your Top 3 Priorities—both personal and professional—and revisiting those priorities every three months. She also discussed the value of saying no while preserving relationships, using strategies like “No, because…”, “No, but…”, asking more questions, or redirecting the request in a different way. Martin suggested imagining how your future self would feel in both “no” and “yes” scenarios to help make decisions.

Martin also highlighted the significance of recognizing your “low peak” hours, which are just as crucial as identifying your “Power Hours” when you are most productive. She explained that creativity often peaks during low-energy times, so it’s essential to align your tasks with your most productive and most creative periods to achieve your UPTIME.

Where you work is as important as what and when you work. Martin introduced the concept of creating “Hot Spots,” designated areas where you consistently perform specific tasks, and “Not Spots,” which are safe zones protected from work-related activities.

Additionally, Martin discussed the “list funnel” technique to manage all your to-do lists effectively, ways to overcome procrastination, how to theme your days, and strategies like using email “laundry baskets” to organize your inbox. She stressed the importance of caring for your “future self” by setting yourself up for future success and happiness.

Laura Mae Martin’s insights on productivity and well-being offer practical strategies for balancing work and life in a more intentional and effective way. Her book provides a comprehensive approach to managing tasks, priorities, and personal growth. Her innovative techniques empower readers to take control of their time, align their actions with their values, and ultimately, set themselves up for long-term success and fulfillment.

 

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August 8, 2024 In Announcements & News

MECA Facilitates Land Purchase for Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region

5+ Acres Secured for Affordable Home Ownership in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC – August 5, 2024 – MECA Commercial Real Estate, a leading commercial real estate firm that has served the Carolinas and beyond for over 70 years, today announced the successful facilitation of a significant land acquisition to support affordable housing initiatives in Charlotte. Gantt Howell, Senior Advisor at MECA Commercial Real Estate, represented Habitat for Humanity of the Charlotte Region in acquiring over 5 acres of land on Allen Road South. Bryan Butler, another Senior Advisor at MECA, represented the seller.

The project will consist of up to 50 for-sale residential units with a blend of single-family homes, duplexes, and triplexes. The timeline to begin construction has not been determined. This acquisition addresses the growing need for affordable home ownership in Charlotte, aligning with Habitat for Humanity’s mission to build homes, communities, and hope. The new development will provide much-needed housing for families, enhancing the quality of life and fostering community development.

“Substantial land opportunities in Charlotte are few, expensive, and extremely competitive,” said Gantt Howell. “This project exemplifies MECA’s commitment to equitable housing and upward mobility, and we are proud to support Habitat for Humanity in their noble cause.”

ABOUT
MECA, a distinguished commercial real estate firm, has been a cornerstone in serving the Carolinas and beyond for over 70 years. Our team of established advisors and support staff with over 250 years of combined industry experience deliver tailored and innovative solutions to address the comprehensive needs of our clients. As the trusted partner in the dynamic commercial real estate market, we are committed to empowering clients to make informed decisions that optimize opportunities and foster lasting value through economic development. For more information about MECA’s services, visit mecacommercial.com.

CONTACT
Olivia Hendricks
MECA Commercial Real Estate
ohendricks@mecacommercial.com
(704) 868-6948

 

MECA Commercial Real Estate is a CREW Charlotte Silver Sponsor and Habitat for Humanity is a CREW Charlotte Community Partner.

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June 11, 2024 In Luncheon Summary

June 2024 CREW Charlotte Luncheon “Reimaging Vintage Office Design”

Submitted by Ashleigh Mellon, Geo Hydro Engineers

At the recent CREW Charlotte June luncheon, attendees were treated to an insightful discussion led by James LaBar of Center City Partners. The focal point? Maximizing the potential of vintage Uptown office space. Rooted in a recent community-wide design competition, the conversation aimed to ignite creativity around existing office buildings in Uptown Charlotte, with the overarching goal of bolstering Uptown as a regional asset brimming with diverse destinations and economic activities.

The panel, comprising representatives from the two winning projects – Brooklyn & Church by Asana Partners/MRP Realty and 301 South College Street by Progressive Companies/Childress Klein – brought forth innovative approaches and future-oriented visions.

Reed Kracke of Asana Partners unveiled the Brooklyn and Church project, an ambitious endeavor involving the conversion of office towers into a mixed-use space blending retail and multifamily units. This transformation, complemented by the construction of a new retail building, promises to infuse 55,000 square feet of retail space into the area, fostering a vibrant “downtown neighborhood” ambiance and enhancing walkability within the coveted Brooklyn Village East West Corridor.

Ryan Doherty of Progressive Companies and Amy Clement of Childress Klein delved into their design concept for 301 South College, emphasizing the aim to inspire future possibilities for the project. Their proposal revolves around activating the street level with an array of retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment venues, while also leveraging the presence of the light rail to create a dynamic experiential space.

The broader context of the discussion touched upon the evolving nature of downtowns nationwide, transitioning from traditional Central Business Districts to more dynamic Central Activity Districts. This shift brings with it a set of challenges, particularly concerning vintage assets predominantly constructed before the turn of the millennium. However, the panelists and attendees alike recognized this as an opportunity to spearhead revitalization efforts and transform Uptown Charlotte into a thriving, pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.

In essence, the CREW Charlotte luncheon served as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and forward-thinking initiatives aimed at reimagining Uptown as a vibrant urban hub. By harnessing the potential of vintage office spaces and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the vision of a revitalized Uptown Charlotte as a bustling epicenter of activity inches closer to reality.

 

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May 7, 2024 In Luncheon Summary

CREW Charlotte May 2024 Signature Luncheon with Dominique Dawes “Success is a Journey, Not a Destination”

Submitted by Julie Pruett, Marlboro Development Team

Photo Credit: Jo Hayes

Dominique Dawes won Olympic gold, but for her, success has been about more than just medals and accolades. It’s something she worked hard to achieve every day on her journey to Olympic glory. Her career in the sport of gymnastics spanned 18 years, reaching its peak at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta as part of the “Magnificent Seven,” where the US Women’s Gymnastics team won gold for the first time in history.

Reflecting on her experience, Dawes explained that gymnastics is an individual sport, and initially, each member of the 1996 US Women’s gymnastics team came to training camp with individual mindsets. However, a shift occurred during training that brought them together as a team. This shift in mindset, Dawes emphasized, led them to adopt the motto “Together Everyone Achieves More.” As a result, team members began to genuinely support one another, setting aside their egos, which allowed them to gel as a team and ultimately win Olympic Gold.

Dawes attributes her success not only to her talent and hard work but also to her ability to shift focus away from herself and to check her ego, which is all about control. This mindset has enabled her to become a successful business owner of gymnastics training locations, the first of which was founded during the global pandemic. She stressed the importance of prioritizing the safety and happiness of the gymnasts.

Additionally, Dawes highlighted the significance of family as the most important team, emphasizing the need to check one’s ego within the family unit. She believes that getting one’s home life right, with the most important team, sets the foundation for success in all other aspects of life.

From her gymnastics career to becoming a successful business owner and prioritizing her family, Dawes overcame inevitable obstacles, challenges, and doubts on her life’s journey. She stresses that focusing not only on achievements and accolades but on what’s real and lasting is the key to a successful and happy life.

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April 15, 2024 In Announcements & News, Press Releases

Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Charlotte Established Endowment for Johnson C. Smith University

Charlotte, North Carolina (April 9, 2024) – CREW Charlotte, one of the most transformative commercial real estate professional organizations in the Charlotte region, announced Tuesday its establishment of a $25,000 endowment benefitting Johnson C. Smith University. The endowment will offset educational expenses for select top performing female students seeking degrees that could lead to careers in commercial real estate. CREW Charlotte funded the endowment through donations raised at various events hosted annually by the organization and chose Johnson C. Smith to receive the generous gift in an effort to further its commitment to diversity and supporting activities that positively impact the Charlotte community.

 

CREW Charlotte President Katie Barker with Morningstar Properties, presents check to Dr. Evelyn Leathers, Dr. Alphonso Ogbuehi, and Jennifer Joyner with Johnson C. Smith University

 

Johnson C. Smith is a private, independent historically black university located in Charlotte, North Carolina that was founded in 1867 as a freedmen’s college to educate formerly enslaved black men. JCSU is one of 11 HBCUs in North Carolina recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. The school offers 22 degree programs through its three colleges to nearly 1,100 students annually.

 

Founded in 1990, CREW Charlotte is a chapter of CREW Network, the commercial real estate industry’s premier business networking organization with over 14,000 members globally. CREW Charlotte boasts over 400 commercial real estate professionals in the Greater Charlotte region. To learn more, visit crewcharlotte.org.

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April 9, 2024 In Luncheon Summary

April 2024 Luncheon: “Thriving Submarkets in Charlotte”

Submitted by Julie Pruett, Marlboro Development Team

CREW Charlotte’s April luncheon showcased Charlotte’s remarkable ascent to becoming the fifteenth largest city in the United States, with a particular focus on its most vibrant submarkets, including South End, University City, SouthPark, and Ballantyne.

Marguerite Novak, representing City Center Partners, provided insights into the staggering $41 billion investment within the City Center footprint. Among the notable current projects is McColl Park, paying homage to Hugh McColl’s legacy. The park’s design is currently being refined, with construction slated to commence in 2024 and an anticipated opening in the summer of 2025. City Center Partners also unveiled their ambitious long-term plan, featuring the North Tryon Tech Hub, a long range plan that will span two decades.

Keith Stanley of University City Center emphasized the unprecedented growth of the University City submarket. Encompassing 8 square miles in North Charlotte, the area boasts 4,700 businesses, a population of 150,000, and a workforce of 100,000. Future developments along the boardwalk, a $40 million library and a research park that will be linked by a pedestrian bridge to UNC Charlotte, promise to further elevate the area’s stature.

Adam Rhew, representing SouthPark Community Partners, revealed that SouthPark is experiencing a surge of $1 billion in new development. Encompassing just one square mile, SouthPark is home to 100,000 residents and a workforce of 32,000. Notably, the newly established municipal service district, including the highly successful SouthPark Mall, underscores the area’s economic vitality. With ongoing renovations at Phillips Place and plans for experiential retail, SouthPark Community Partners is spearheading the 2035 Vision Plan, envisioning enhanced walkability, green spaces, and a vibrant park-centric environment.

Lastly, Christina Thigpen, representing Northwood Office and a board member of South Charlotte Partners, provided insights into the transformation of Ballantyne’s campus. The former golf course is evolving into a dynamic mixed-use development. Groundbreaking in 2021, Ballantyne’s revitalization has been supported by the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County with assistance with road and water enhancements. The “New Heart” of Ballantyne, encompasses both indoor and outdoor spaces, with Olde Mecklenburg Brewery anchoring the development with a 1-acre beer garden set to open next month. With plans for a 26-story residential tower, a 6-acre stream park, Amp @ Ballantyne which will be an outdoor concert venue, and Greenway acres facilitating connectivity to uptown via bike, Ballantyne’s reimagination promises to redefine contemporary living in Charlotte.

As these ambitious projects take shape, Charlotte is poised to not only maintain its status a major metropolitan hub but also emerge as a beacon of urban excellence, offering its resident and visitors unparalleled opportunities for living and thriving in all areas of the Queen City.

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February 13, 2024 In Luncheon Summary

CREW Charlotte’s February 2024 Luncheon: “What’s Next at CLT?”

Submitted by Julie Pruett, Marlboro Development Team

A record-breaking 245 people attended CREW Charlotte’s February Luncheon! Located 6 miles from the city center, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) stands as the seventh busiest airport in the United States, boasting a remarkable achievement in 2023 by accommodating over 53 million passengers, marking it as a record-breaking year. Ted Kaplan, Chief Business and Innovation Officer at CLT, elaborated on the airport’s economic significance. With 180 nonstop destinations and 36 international destinations, CLT generates $32 billion annually in economic impact in North Carolina, constituting 5% of the State’s GDP. Owned and operated by the City of Charlotte, CLT operates under a self-sustaining federal mandate, necessitating that all expenditures at the airport be covered by aeronautical and non-aeronautical revenues.

Stuart Hair, Director of Commercial and Community Engagement, outlined CLT’s response to its exponential growth through various airport renovations and expansions. The completion of the terminal lobby expansion, representing a $608 million investment, is anticipated by 2025. Concurrently, the ongoing Concourse A Expansion – Phase II, set to add 10 new gates, is slated for completion in 2024. Furthermore, the construction of a fourth parallel runway, earmarked for completion in 2027, symbolizes a monumental investment of $1 billion.

In tandem with aeronautical advancements, Jennifer Thompson, Commercial Engagement Manager, unveiled CLT’s endeavor to diversify revenue streams by releasing a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the development of a destination district. The RFP, aimed at generating non-aeronautical revenue, sets the deadline for proposals as February 22, 2024, with the selection of a developer scheduled for April 2024.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) exemplifies not only a vital transportation hub but also a cornerstone of economic activity in North Carolina. With its ambitious expansion plans and strategic initiatives to bolster revenue, CLT is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and serve as a catalyst for economic development in the region.

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January 9, 2024 In Luncheon Summary

January 2024 Luncheon: “The National and Regional Economy in 2024”

Submitted by Ashleigh Mellon, Geo-Hydro Engineers

 

At the January luncheon, economist Laura Ulrich, with the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, delivered an optimistic message, assuring that the current data does not indicate a potential recession in 2024. Despite potential roadblocks, the resilience of consumer spending amid inflation stands out as a key factor in averting an economic downturn. Ullrich noted that the Federal Reserve has concluded its rate increases, and there are signs of rates starting to decline. Global supply chain issues have largely subsided to levels below those seen before the COVID-19 pandemic, although some isolated challenges persist. Housing starts and permits have seen an uptick in recent months, although they remain below 2021 levels, and the pervasive issue of housing shortages persists across communities. Notably, North Carolina emerges as a strong performer in employment recovery, with Raleigh, Durham, and Charlotte leading the way in exceeding the state’s 7 percent job growth. Despite the positive outlook, the tight labor market is acknowledged, and there is a recognition that it may continue to tighten in the future.

For Laura’s full presentation, please click here.

 

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