Councilwoman Marjorie Molina

In 1975, Eastland Mall opened as the largest mall in North Carolina—an ice rink, the first East Coast in-mall food court, a gathering place for families. For East Charlotte, it was more than a mall—it was where the community showed up.

By 2010, it closed. By 2013, it was demolished. For over a decade, 80 empty acres stood as a daily reminder of what was lost.

That sets the stage for last Friday.

On March 6, 2026, the final 30 acres broke ground. Now, six multi-sport fields, a 100,000-square-foot indoor sports facility, a $41.2 million public investment (in a $67 million project), 500 jobs, and an estimated $170 million in annual economic impact will transform the corridor.

In 2023, two visions—Option A and Option B—left the city at a standstill. I asked the council to defer and seek unity—ensuring East Charlotte’s vision wouldn’t be divided. That motion led to what broke ground: fields and facilities from a united plan.

At that time, I represented District 5, attending every milestone—from the official groundbreaking of Eastland Yards to Evoke Living to Eastland Park, and now this!

Civic leadership is rarely about the final ceremony—it’s the years between vision and groundbreaking. East Charlotte waited over a decade. Now, the next chapter rises. ☀️

It’s time. I stood as the first Black American woman to represent East Charlotte, and I faced a storm that tested everything. In Women’s History Month, I reflect on the strength found in the aftermath. Thirty-three votes didn’t end my path—they revealed who truly stood with me.

Leadership is forged in fire, and I’ve walked through it.

The future? I’m writing it now.

Serving District 5 was one of the greatest honors of my career. I came into this role with one goal: show up, get it done, and make sure every voice in this community is heard.

Along the way, we made real things happen and progress that I am truly proud of. This season has ended, but I'm not going anywhere. New chapter loading… 👀

Charlotte and District 5, thank you for trusting me!

I am honored to have been named one of the Most Influential People in Charlotte in the 10th Anniversary Edition of Who's Who in Black Charlotte! Public service has been my mission for so many years and being recognized in this way with so many amazing people is something I do not take lightly. Influence comes with a weight of responsibility and I have been honored to take it on as your councilwoman for District 5.

In South End, a one-bedroom apartment can cost nearly $2,000 a month. At Eastland Yards, we are delivering that *same quality* for as low as $650. How is that possible when construction costs are high? Master Developer Tim Sittema explains that building affordable housing costs just as much as luxury housing. The difference is how we fund it. By using the Housing Trust Fund, tax credits, and public-private partnerships, we can bridge the financial gap and deliver top-tier homes to residents at rates they can actually afford.

WANT THE FULL STORY?

This is just a small part of the conversation. I sat down with Tim for a full interview covering the entire 7-year journey of Eastland Yards—including the "forced marriage" of the sports complex and the search for a grocery store. You can watch the full interview on my YouTube channel.