Amazing......
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11/8/2007
I am a long time resident of the Charlotte area (15 years) having moved here right out of college. I am completely amazed at how negative the views are of Charlotte. Having grown up outside of DC I have seen "bad traffic" which Charlotte doesn't have. Is it perfect, No. But by no means bad.
Schools: schools are an issue. Charlotte does have room for improvement but amazingly we still rank pretty high when compared to other big cities. Those in Charlotte, mostly from somewhere else, have been spoiled by the ability to "choose". They chose to leave the situation they were in and come to Charlotte. Now they want to choose the level of every school. We have good schools, we have bad schools, but doesnt every big city. And guess what, if you dont like the schools you can "choose" to go to a different area with the schools that you will approve of. (just like anywhere else).
Nightlife: having moved here right out of college and still looking to hang on to the college life as long as possible, I found Charlotte to provide many options. Nightlife then was 1/2 what it is now. We now have an art district, many more night clubs, restaurants, and now have many more professionals living uptown. The town is still finding its identity. Not bible beaters but not brazen yankees or rednecks either. A good mix.
Employment/opportunity: The economic growth of Charlotte is tremendous. A town of young professionals, fortune 500 companies continue to target the piedmont of NC for relocation. Opportunities abound, an entrepreneurs delight. If you cant make a living in Charlotte you are not trying. A very affordable area, yes we do have our "ritzy" areas but that is not representative of the area. Every city has the "old money" areas of town and so do we.
Crime: Crime is up and is a problem if you live in specific areas of town. I have lived in the East side of Charlotte the entire 15 years and havent personally experience the crime everyone has expressed concern over on the bb. I would say it is a function of our judicial system not having the capability to prosecute, and repeat offenders not being behind bars. This again is a function of growth. Most want the economic benefit but not the unpopular negatives that come along. When I moved here I drove through what Charlotteans called "the projects" and laughed outloud having been in SE DC. Perspectives are very different depending on where you are from. Dont come expecting complete perfection, but everywhere in Charlotte there is a little bit of greatness. Great weather, great people and great environment to raise a family. Do your research! Ask questions? Beauty is in the eye of the beholder!
Joe | Harrisburg, NC