June 11. [Opinion] We appreciate the Cornelius Planning Board’s thoughtful review of our proposed six-story mixed-use project, Cashmere at Lake Norman. While we were disappointed by the recommendation to reduce the project to three stories, we were encouraged by the many positive comments about the project’s design integrity, community benefit, and potential to revitalize a key site in the Village Center.

Several board members pointed out the Town’s tendency to reference 1999 planning standards—but Cornelius is not 1999 anymore. With limited land remaining, smart growth will require allowing greater height in strategic areas where infrastructure, walkability, and mixed-use goals align.

Rendering of Cashmere proposal

Board members also observed that the corridor where this project is located—originally envisioned as mixed-use—has not been developing residentially. Historically, the Town’s land use discussions for this area have centered on commercial and retail development, not housing. Cashmere at Lake Norman brings balance to that vision by delivering true mixed-use, with high-quality residences, activated retail, and pedestrian-friendly design.

Our project also solves a problem introduced by a 2024 Town decision that eliminated 41 on-street parking spaces, negatively impacting the viability of ground-level uses. Our response is practical and forward-looking: a 14-car high-speed underground garage that restores access and reduces the burden on surface infrastructure. Compared to what we would need if we built only what we’re entitled to under current zoning—36 surface parking spaces—our plan reduces that requirement to just 19, supporting more efficient land use and preserving the area’s character.

A few board members voiced concerns about infrastructure capacity. We want to emphasize that this site is infrastructure-ready and places no additional burden on the Town. In fact, under the conditions we’ve already agreed to, we are solving major issues around both infrastructure and parking—including the removal of the bump-out at Bethel Church and Jetton Road, enhancements to traffic flow, and the creation of structured underground parking that mitigates surface lot demand while restoring critical functionality to the corridor.

Cashmere site plan: Jetton runs diagonally across the lower right

But to be clear: reducing this project to three stories would make it economically unviable. The core components of viable retail, structured parking, and sufficient residential density are interconnected. Dismantling that balance would prevent the project from moving forward.

This site has sat vacant for over 26 years. Cashmere at Lake Norman is a catalyst project—a thoughtfully designed, community-aligned opportunity to transform underused land into something vibrant, functional, and lasting.

We urge the Town Board to reflect on the full Planning Board discussion, which revealed broad support for the project’s purpose and potential, even among those who recommended a reduction. We are ready to deliver something transformational—but only if the conditions allow for a viable, future-oriented development that reflects today’s Cornelius—not the version from decades ago.

—Adam Jones, developer

Cashmere at Lake Norman