‘It’s tragic': Since pandemic, neighbors notice less vibrant Dilworth

CHARLOTTE — Known for its friendly neighborhood vibe, people who live in Charlotte’s Dilworth neighborhood are noticing it’s not as vibrant as it once was.

“Obviously, with COVID, a lot of the restaurants are closed,” said resident Claire Bennett.

The Summit Room closed for good, citing the 50% capacity rule and the cost of rehiring. Even before the pandemic, several businesses announced closures, including Inishmore, The People’s Market and Babalu.

Bennett suspects it could be because more people are gravitating toward other neighborhoods.

“Of course, South End is becoming more developed,” she said.

A developer is set to begin building on the vacant lot where food trucks used to gather. The Dilworth Community Association is rallying around the businesses that are still around so that the neighborhood doesn't lose its charm to a more commercialized feel.

“We’re always concerned about that,” Dilworth Community Association president Valerie Preston told Channel 9. “That’s why there’s zoning in place and small area plans to maintain the feel of Dilworth.”

Preston said that while the neighborhood wants to grow as Charlotte does, they want to do it in a responsible way -- and advocate for the businesses that set up shop there.

“It’s hard everywhere,” she said. “We are concerned about our local businesses and restaurants and their employees. It’s tragic.”

Other neighbors, like Christine Caesar, said it’s all part of growing pains.

“You know, restaurants come and go, but it’s wonderful to see the growth,” she told Channel 9.

The Dilworth Community Association said it is doing everything it can to encourage neighbors to support small businesses, and that it needs to be a city-wide effort to keep them open.

Dilworth neighbors wary after property vacant since 1990s now under contract Dilworth neighbors wary after property vacant since 1990s now under contract

Cox Media Group