Laurium, Upper Michigan, October 17, 2025
A groundbreaking ceremony took place in Laurium, Upper Michigan, marking the beginning of construction for a new Department of Public Works building. This facility aims to modernize operations and enhance service efficiency, benefiting the local community. The new building is expected to play a crucial role in improving infrastructure and services in the region, reflecting the commitment to better public works management.
Charlotte, North Carolina
New Indoor Music Venue Announced Near Bank of America Stadium
Tepper Sports & Entertainment (TSE) has announced plans for a new 4,400-seat indoor music venue adjacent to the North Gate of Bank of America Stadium in Uptown Charlotte. The facility, covering 89,000 square feet, aims to enhance the city’s entertainment landscape. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 and is expected to open in 2030. TSE will provide full funding for the project, though specific cost details have yet to be disclosed.
Progress on Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Uptown Branch
The construction of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s new five-story Uptown branch at 6th and North Tryon Streets is progressing, although it is behind schedule. Initially expected to open in 2026, the $137 million, 115,000-square-foot facility will now likely open in spring 2027. After being closed for four years, the library is projected to attract one million visitors in its first year upon completion, becoming a vital community resource.
Wilson Stadium Under Construction in Wilson
Construction for Wilson Stadium, part of the Wilson Sports + Entertainment Complex (WiSE), is currently underway in Wilson, North Carolina. This $70 million project, which broke ground on May 10, 2024, is scheduled for completion by the opening day of the Minor League Baseball season in 2026. The stadium will accommodate 4,500 attendees and will feature artificial turf.
Mid-Currituck Bridge Project Advances
The Mid-Currituck Bridge project, a proposed seven-mile long two-lane toll bridge across Currituck Sound, is making progress. Designed to reduce summer traffic congestion and improve emergency response times, construction is anticipated to begin in the 2020s-2030s. Plans for the bridge date back to the 1970s.
Asheville Regional Airport Expansion Continues
Asheville Regional Airport is in the midst of a substantial expansion and reconstruction effort. The new terminal, planned to be 150% larger than the existing one with 12 gates, is set to be completed by 2026. Additionally, a new air-traffic control tower, which commenced construction in January 2023, is expected to be finished in 2025.
Challenges in North Carolina’s Construction Industry
The construction industry in North Carolina is confronting serious challenges due to recently imposed tariffs on imported materials, which affect over 45% of construction supplies. This situation has caused a sharp increase in costs, evidenced by a 1.4% rise in January. Economic and political uncertainty is contributing to investor hesitancy, complicating financial planning for projects.
North Carolina’s Construction Industry Ranks Fifth Nationally
According to a recent analysis, North Carolina’s construction industry is ranked as the fifth strongest in the United States. From 2021 to 2024, construction wages in the state increased by 11.4%, and construction employment saw a growth of 13%, outperforming the overall workforce increase of 10.8%. The ongoing demand for new housing suggests a robust construction sector.
Efforts to Enhance Highway Construction Zone Safety
To promote safety in highway construction zones, state leaders in North Carolina are proposing new legislation to significantly increase penalties for speeding in these areas, from $250 to $5,000. This initiative aims to safeguard both construction workers and drivers as numerous projects unfold in Charlotte and its neighboring regions.
ReBuild NC Seeks Additional Funding for Homebuilding
The ReBuild NC program, aimed at helping rebuild homes damaged by Hurricanes Florence and Matthew in eastern North Carolina, is requesting an additional $217 million in funding. Facing a deficit exceeding $221 million, the agency needs these new funds to complete projects within the next year, or risk losing contractors and further delaying recovery.
North Carolina Gears Up for Homebuilding After Helene
In preparation for recovering from Hurricane Helene, North Carolina officials are set to contract approximately 25 companies for home demolition and rebuilding. The state intends to streamline the rebuilding process by offering a limited selection of floor plans to homeowners and will consider relocation only in extreme cases.
North Carolina Freedom Park Opens in Raleigh
North Carolina Freedom Park, which stands as the state’s first monument celebrating the Black experience, opened in downtown Raleigh on August 23, 2023. Located between the Executive Mansion and the Legislative Building, the park was designed by Phil Freelon and Perkins + Will, with a budget of $5 million partially funded by a $1.9 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
Novus Tower Nears Completion in Durham
Novus, a 27-story mixed-use tower in downtown Durham, is nearing completion. The structure topped out on January 25, 2024, and is projected to open in 2025. This project is a collaboration between Austin Lawrence Partners and Global Holdings.
Queensbridge Collective Under Construction in Charlotte
The Queensbridge Collective, previously known as 1111 South Tryon, is a two-building development progressing in Charlotte’s South End neighborhood. Begun in May 2023, this project is anticipated to be completed by 2027 and is a partnership between Riverside Investment & Development Co. and Woodfield Development.
Durant Road Bridge Project in Raleigh
A new two-year project to construct a bridge on Durant Road in Raleigh is currently underway. This bridge will span the S-Line, a newly established rail line connecting Raleigh and Richmond, with traffic changes already implemented on a major road. The project is expected to be completed by spring 2027.
New Laws Affecting North Carolina Construction Industry
As of the start of the new year, several new laws affecting the North Carolina construction industry have taken effect, covering areas such as Ticketmaster fees, home construction regulations, auto insurance rules, toll road fees, and gubernatorial power. These legislative changes are projected to significantly influence the construction landscape in the state.
North Carolina’s Construction Industry Faces Major Challenges
The North Carolina construction industry continues to experience significant challenges due to new tariffs on imported materials affecting over 45% of construction supplies. With costs rising sharply, the industry grapples with uncertainty as economic and political factors lead to hesitancy among investors.
North Carolina Construction Industry Ranks Fifth Nationally
In a recent analysis, North Carolina’s construction industry has been recognized as the fifth strongest in the nation. Construction wages rose by 11.4% from 2021 to 2024, with a 13% growth in employment compared to a 10.8% increase across the entire workforce, showcasing the ongoing demand for new housing.
Efforts to Enhance Highway Construction Zone Safety
State leaders are actively working to improve safety in highway construction zones, with proposals to raise penalties for speeding in these areas significantly, from $250 to $5,000, as a measure to ensure the protection of both workers and motorists.
FAQ
What is the new indoor music venue being built in Charlotte?
When is the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s Uptown branch expected to open?
What challenges is the North Carolina construction industry facing?
Key Features Chart
| Project | Location | Expected Completion | Cost | Seating Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor Music Venue | Charlotte | 2030 | Undisclosed | 4,400 |
| Mecklenburg Library Uptown Branch | Charlotte | Spring 2027 | $137 million | N/A |
| Wilson Stadium | Wilson | 2026 | $70 million | 4,500 |
| Asheville Regional Airport Expansion | Asheville | 2026 | Undisclosed | N/A |
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Author: Construction NC News
The NORTH CAROLINA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionncnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in North Carolina and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas and the North Carolina Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Womble Bond Dickinson LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
