What’s Being Built Beside Antiquity in Cornelius, NC? (2026 Development & Road Update)

If you live in or near Antiquity, you’ve likely noticed land clearing, site work, and survey activity along Zion Avenue and South Street. With multiple approved mixed-use projects and significant road improvements underway, this part of Cornelius is entering a new phase of growth.

Here’s a clear, up-to-date look at what is being built beside Antiquity in 2026 — including residential development, commercial space, and major transportation upgrades.


Greenway Gartens (Briar Square): The Major Development Beside Antiquity

The most significant project adjacent to Antiquity is the mixed-use development formerly known as Greenway Gartens, now often referred to as Briar Square. The site sits along Zion Avenue near the former Curtis Screw industrial property.

What Is Being Built at Greenway Gartens?

Plans for the project include:

  • Approximately 346 multifamily apartment units (Phase 1)

  • Around 14 townhomes

  • Roughly 14,000 square feet of brewpub/restaurant space

  • About 10,000 square feet of indoor event space

  • An additional 10,000 square feet of commercial space

  • Future residential phases planned beyond the initial buildout

This development will introduce several hundred new residential units within walking distance of Antiquity and downtown Cornelius, significantly increasing housing density in the immediate area.

Greenway Gartens - Cornelius NC Elevation 1

Construction Status in 2026

  • Former industrial structures on the property have been demolished

  • Land clearing, grading, and infrastructure installation are underway

  • Building permits are progressing in phases

  • Vertical construction is expected to follow site preparation

This is the primary active construction site directly beside Antiquity.


Zion Avenue Realignment and New Roundabout

A critical component of the Greenway Gartens approval is a redesign of the surrounding road network.

Zion Aveunue Roundabout

What Is Changing on Zion Avenue?

As part of the rezoning conditions:

  • Zion Avenue will be realigned

  • A roundabout will be constructed at Lawn Market Street

  • Intersection improvements will be made to accommodate increased traffic

The purpose of these changes is to:

  • Improve traffic flow between Zion Avenue and Antiquity

  • Reduce congestion along South Street

  • Increase pedestrian and vehicle safety

  • Support additional residential and commercial traffic generated by the development

The Town of Cornelius has taken steps to secure necessary right-of-way to ensure the road improvements can be completed. Once built, the roundabout is expected to reduce traffic conflict points and improve circulation around the Antiquity area.


The Caroline Mixed-Use Project Near South Street

Another approved project beside Antiquity is the Caroline development, located north of the neighborhood near South Street.

Caroline Elevation-Aerial Cornelius NC

What Is Planned for the Caroline Site?

  • Approximately 180 age-restricted (55+) multifamily units

  • Around 110 traditional multifamily units

  • Associated street and infrastructure improvements

Current Status

As of 2026:

  • The project remains approved by the Town of Cornelius

  • Construction has not yet begun

  • Permitting and coordination are ongoing

While Caroline is not currently under construction, it remains an approved development that could move forward in a future phase of area growth.


Additional Road Improvements Impacting the Area

Beyond the Zion Avenue changes tied directly to Greenway Gartens, larger regional infrastructure projects will affect traffic patterns for Antiquity residents.

West Catawba Avenue Intersection Improvements

The North Carolina Department of Transportation has initiated a major upgrade at:

  • West Catawba Avenue

  • Torrence Chapel Road

  • Liverpool Parkway

This multi-year project includes:

  • Conversion to a reduced-conflict intersection design

  • New roundabouts north and south of Catawba Avenue

  • Road realignments to improve safety and traffic flow

Construction is expected to continue through 2028. While not immediately beside Antiquity, this intersection serves as a key commuter route for many Cornelius residents.


What This Means for Antiquity Homeowners and Buyers

The combination of new residential density, added commercial space, and upgraded infrastructure will reshape the immediate surroundings of Antiquity.

Potential impacts include:

  • Increased walkability and nearby dining options

  • Higher residential density within walking distance

  • Improved traffic circulation once road projects are complete

  • Short-term construction activity during build phases

Because Antiquity was designed as a mixed-use, walkable neighborhood, adjacent development aligns with its original planning vision — though buyers may weigh density and traffic considerations differently depending on their preferences.


Considering a Move Near Antiquity?

Development changes markets. New construction, infrastructure upgrades, and commercial growth all influence buyer demand and property values.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling near Antiquity in Cornelius, I’m happy to provide:

  • A current home value analysis

  • Insight into how nearby development may affect pricing

  • Updates as construction progresses

  • Guidance on timing your move strategically

Reach out anytime if you’d like to discuss how these projects could impact your specific property or plans.

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Photos courtesy of Town of Cornelius

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