Final decision made on data center request to demolish historic Charlotte facade

Mecklenburg County has approved a demolition permit for the 100-year-old Court Arcade building at 725 E. Trade St. in uptown Charlotte, allowing Texas-based Digital Realty to proceed with its plans to expand an existing data center. This decision comes despite significant efforts by the Charlotte branch of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and other preservationists to save the building's historic facade.

Initially, Digital Realty had indicated plans to retain the facade as part of its redevelopment. However, the company later cited feasibility issues, stating that a full demolition was necessary to expand its data center operations. Kate Shelton, executive director of AIA Charlotte, expressed disappointment, stating that their proposals to save or relocate portions of the facade were rejected by the developer.

The Court Arcade, designed by architect William Peeps, was an office building notable for its arcade-style architecture, though unlike the nearby Latta Arcade, it was never designated a historic landmark. A historic designation would have slowed, but not necessarily prevented, the demolition process.

Digital Realty's expansion in Charlotte includes this project and another large data center in west Charlotte, which received rezoning approval last year and will include a Duke Energy substation paid for by Digital Realty. The company's projects were initiated before Charlotte's June moratorium on data center development and rezoning, ensuring compliance with current city ordinances. Digital Realty has stated it is developing a strategy to make meaningful investments in historic preservation efforts.