News About Town: The Town of Matthews was selected by America Walks as one of 19 agencies to receive a Community Change Grant. America Walks is a nonprofit devoted to advancing safe, equitable, accessible, and enjoyable places to walk through awarding grants and providing resources to effectively advocate for change. The award from the Community Change Grant will be used to improve connectivity between the Community Center and McDowell Arts Center. (Remember the raised crosswalk between the two buildings that was painted during Matthews Alive?) Currently, the town has a call for artists to propose a mural design for the crosswalk. This mural will increase visibility, and create a safe crossing for Matthews Elementary students who use it daily.
Finalizing the climbing walls at the Matthews Inner Peaks; image via Inner Peaks’ Facebook.
News Around Town: According to ApartmentList’s January 2020 rent report, rent in Matthews increased 0.7 percent in January and 4.7 percent over the past year. The national average for monthly rent is $1,192, an increase of 1.4% over the past year. Of the nine towns and cities listed on the Charlotte area rent report, the apartment rental average for both one- and two-bedroom apartments in Matthews were higher than any other location ($1,220 and $1,420, respectively). Despite the high rent, Matthews’ annual percentage increase was third-highest, behind Pineville (5.6% annual increase), and Cornelius (5% annual increase).
One Fun Thing: Inner Peaks Matthews, 10715 Independence Pointe Pkwy., is officially open. Want to get your climb on? Hours are: Monday through Friday: 10 am-10 pm; Saturday 10 am-8 pm, and Sunday 12 pm- 7 pm. Not in the mood for reaching great heights? Stay firmly grounded; the center also hosts yoga classes on Monday and Wednesday.
Don’t Forget: Tonight Sidecar Social Club plays the Community Center as Parks and Rec hosts their first Cool Vibes Winter Music Concert of the series at Fullwood Theater, 100 W McDowell St. The fun starts at 5:30pm for food, drinks, and alcohol sales. This event is for ages 21 and up only. Tickets are $15 in advance, and $18 at the door on the day of the event.
