Charlotte Bids Farewell to TGI Fridays as Construction Plans Begin
In the vibrant city of Charlotte, the skyline sees changes yet again as the well-known TGI Fridays located in Steele Creek shuts its doors for the final time. Just over ten months after Fifth Third Bank filed a plan with the city to demolish the restaurant, we witness the end of an era for both the beloved eatery and the local community.
A Surprising Closure
In a twist that caught many off guard, the restaurant announced its permanent closure simply one day after being listed as “temporarily closed” on its website. All signage has been stripped away from the building, leaving only remnant memories of its vibrant atmosphere behind. A large dumpster now stands by the entrance, paired with gray and blue plastic crates scattered around – a scene that speaks to the end of an established dining spot.
As of August 31, TGI Fridays, located at 12811 S. Tryon St., made its last call to customers, redirecting devoted fans to its other locations at Northlake Mall and 409 W. WT Harris Blvd. in the heart of the University area.
Maripaz Romero, a spokesperson for TGI Fridays, mentioned that as part of the closure, employee transfer opportunities have been offered to many of the restaurant’s staff, ensuring that some level of support remains as they transition to new roles.
What’s Next for the Site?
As we turn our gaze toward the future, the 1.2-acre property where TGI Fridays once thrived is set to undergo a transformation. This area falls under the RiverGate shopping center umbrella and is owned by Kolb Tucson, a company based in Englewood, New Jersey. However, when approached, Kolb Tucson declined to comment on the situation, redirecting inquiries to Fifth Third Bank.
Fifth Third has big plans for this site, set to construct a new 1,900-square-foot bank branch equipped with a two-lane remote drive-thru and ATM. Initial sketches reveal that the bank will also feature around 12 parking spaces, catering to a community that thrives on convenience. The anticipated opening of the new branch is slated for late 2025 according to Tommy Lloyd, the Carolinas retail executive for Fifth Third Bank.
Banking on Innovation
What makes this new bank branch particularly exciting is its focus on innovation. Rather than the typical teller windows that often create a barrier between staff and customers, the new design promotes a friendly, fluid environment where employees can easily engage with clients throughout the lobby. With tablet computers in hand, staff will be empowered to deliver personalized service throughout the bank’s open layout.
Additionally, a tech wall featuring dynamic digital displays will keep customers informed and engaged. The space also plans for flexible meeting areas that allow for varying degrees of privacy depending on the type of discussion taking place, a thoughtful touch in today’s world.
Growth in the Region
The closure of TGI Fridays marks a shift in the dining landscape, but it comes alongside {b>exciting growth news for Fifth Third Bank. Alongside the Steele Creek project, two more branches in the Charlotte area are set to launch in December – one in Mills Crossing, South Carolina, and another on Beatties Ford Road in west Charlotte. This expansion will bring the total number of new Fifth Third locations in the Charlotte region to 20 since 2018, showcasing the bank’s ambitious strategy in this bustling area.
Final Thoughts
As the sun sets on TGI Fridays in Steele Creek, the community stands at a crossroads. While it’s always tough to say goodbye to a favorite dining spot, the arrival of a new bank branch paints a picture of progress and opportunity. With recent openings of big names like Total Wine and Sephora in the nearby Rivergate shopping center, it’s clear that Charlotte’s retail landscape is ever-evolving.
As these changes take place, it’s crucial for the community to stay engaged and continue to support local establishments in new and innovative ways. Here’s to the memories made at TGI Fridays and the promising future ahead in the Steele Creek area.
