Matthews Council approves partnership for new elementary school and children's museum

Matthews officials are moving forward with an innovative partnership that aims to enhance educational and recreational opportunities in the community. During the Board of Commissioners meeting on May 27, 2025, the board discussed a memorandum of understanding and joint use agreements with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Board of Education (CMS) for the colocation of a new Matthews Elementary School and a children's museum, Discovery Place Kids, in a revamped downtown park.

The proposed project will see the new elementary school built on the current school site, while the existing school property will be transformed into a larger signature park, significantly expanding the green space available to residents. This initiative follows positive feedback from public information sessions held to address community concerns regarding safety, traffic, and parking.

The memorandum outlines a land swap where Matthews will provide CMS with a portion of land at McKee and Pleasant Plains, ensuring that CMS has space for future school needs. In return, Matthews will acquire land for the park, which will be developed with community input. The board anticipates finalizing the land swap by June, pending necessary surveys and appraisals.

Commissioners also discussed plans for activating the remaining land at McKee and Pleasant Plains, with suggestions for community gardens and walking trails to enhance local engagement. The board emphasized the importance of thoughtful design to ensure accessibility and safety, particularly regarding traffic patterns and school hours.

Concerns were raised about potential traffic impacts on nearby Sadie Drive, with plans for a traffic impact analysis to address these issues. The board aims to improve access routes and minimize cut-through traffic in residential areas.

As the project progresses, Matthews residents can look forward to a vibrant educational and recreational hub that promises to enrich community life and foster a safe environment for children and families.