Belk Tower removal continues

Efforts to remove Belk Tower are still under way. Inclement weather postponed D.H. Griffin Companies’ schedule to dismantle the structure during winter break.

In October 2015, the decision was announced to remove the Belk Tower due to significant structural issues and repairs and renovations estimated at approximately $1 million. The UNC Charlotte Board of Trustees agreed unanimously to establish an immediate pedestrian safety zone around the tower, which will remain until the structure is dismantled within the next week.

The green construction fence will be removed after the site is repaired by a second contractor. Work is expected to begin on Monday, Jan. 11, to fill in the hole left by the tower’s removal and to re-install and/or replace brick pavers in the area. The duration of this work is expected to be three weeks.

The Belk Tower was funded through a gift from long-time University benefactor Irwin Belk and his three brothers — John, Thomas and Henderson. Surviving members of the Belk family were consulted about the tower and support the University’s plans. To recognize the Belk family’s generosity to the University, the Board of Trustees has agreed to designate the area around the tower Belk Plaza.

The University has started an open process to solicit public input from students, faculty, staff and alumni regarding the design of the Belk Plaza. In November 2015, the chancellor appointed 14 individuals representing the campus and the city to a Belk Plaza Design Committee. The Charlotte architectural firm of LandDesign will hold three public forums to seek ideas about the features of a redesigned plaza that would be most preferred. A final design concept for the plaza is expected by May 2016.