The Republic Family of Companies - through its Charlotte subsidiary Republic Development Group ("Republic") - and Esen today announced a joint venture to develop a new mixed-use community at 700 and 800 Central Avenue. Located just east of Uptown in the historic Plaza Midwood neighborhood, the project will feature approximately 370 multifamily units and 3,000 square feet of ground-floor retail space. Construction is planned to start in mid-2026.

The development represents a significant investment in one of Charlotte’s most culturally rich corridors. Plaza Midwood, which originated in the early 1900s as the city’s first "streetcar suburb," owes its unique character to the 1903 streetcar line that ran down Central Avenue. This new project, located at Central Ave and Piedmont St, is designed to honor this history while meeting the modern demand for walkable, amenity-rich living.

"We are thrilled to bring a project of this caliber to Plaza Midwood, a neighborhood that offers historic charm within reach of Charlotte’s economic center," said Adam McMichael, Managing Director and Charlotte Lead for Republic. " Charlotte’s demand for well-located, thoughtfully crafted housing continues to grow, and this project answers that need. For us, this is about more than building housing; it’s about welcoming new residents to one of the Southeast’s most desirable neighborhoods."

The partnership brings together two powerful real estate entities. Republic, led by Chairman Richard Kramer, encompasses a diverse portfolio of businesses including Republic Properties Corporation and Republic Urban Properties. Esen, a recently established venture formed by seasoned developers, focuses on urban developments grounded in purpose-driven design.

"This partnership between Republic and Esen reflects a shared belief in Charlotte’s future and a shared vision for this site," said Dave Boillot, Chief Investment Officer of Esen. "We are incredibly excited to enter the Charlotte market alongside a partner with Republic’s track record. We believe our Central Avenue project will set a new standard for living in Plaza Midwood."

About Esen

Esen is a real estate development and investment firm dedicated to creating places that serve people and strengthen communities. Rooted in decades of institutional experience yet driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, Esen brings together thoughtful design, disciplined execution, and trusted capital partnerships to deliver meaningful mixed-use projects in urban environments. Committed to excellence, collaboration, and long-term value creation, the Esen team consistently delivers exceptional results for investors and communities alike. For more information, visit EsenDev.com.

About Republic Family of Companies

The Republic Family of Companies is a privately owned, full-service real estate investment, management, and development enterprise. The company encompasses several businesses, including Republic Holdings Corporation, Republic Properties Corporation, Republic Urban Properties, Republic Development Group, and Republic Land Development. For more information, visit Republicfamilyofcompanies.com.

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"This partnership between Republic and Esen reflects a shared belief in Charlotte’s future and a shared vision for this site," - Dave Boillot, Chief Investment Officer of Esen.