Duke and CaroMont Planning 2 New Massive Charlotte Hospitals That Could Cost Nearly $1 Billion

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Duke and CaroMont Planning 2 New Massive Charlotte Hospitals That Could Cost Nearly $1 Billion

Charlotte’s hospital landscape could be headed for one of its biggest shakeups in decades.

Duke Health and CaroMont Health have just announced plans to build two new flagship hospitals in Mecklenburg County. One would rise in University City, while the other would anchor Charlotte’s massive River District near the airport.

“The rapidly growing Charlotte region needs more access to care and more options for the highest quality care locally,” said David W. Zaas, M.D., chief executive officer of Duke University Health System. “Duke Health is bringing its specialty expertise, research and education to Charlotte so more people can access leading academic care closer to home. As two North Carolina health systems with deep roots in this state and a shared commitment to quality, we are the right partners to expand these options for patients.”

The health systems have not released construction budgets. However, recent hospital projects suggest the combined investment could easily reach hundreds of millions of dollars and potentially approach $1 billion.

CaroMont’s new 54-bed Belmont hospital cost about $260 million. Duke’s planned 57-bed Cary hospital has been estimated near $443 million.

The Charlotte proposals are much larger.

200 Beds Across Two New Hospitals

The larger hospital would bring 120 beds to University City, near Mallard Creek Church Road and Interstate 85.

That would put it close to the size of Atrium Health University City, which currently has about 130 beds. Duke and CaroMont would effectively place another major hospital into one of Charlotte’s busiest healthcare corridors.

The second hospital would bring 80 beds to the River District in west Charlotte.

That 1,400-acre development between Charlotte Douglas International Airport and the Catawba River is expected to become a roughly $6 billion community with thousands of homes, offices, hotels, retail and miles of trails.

Adding a full-service hospital would make healthcare one of the development’s largest anchors.

Duke and CaroMont Want More Than Half of Mecklenburg’s New Beds

North Carolina has identified a need for 389 additional acute-care hospital beds in Mecklenburg County.

Duke and CaroMont are requesting 200 of them — more than 51% of the entire allocation.

The two systems would operate the hospitals through CHDH Ventures LLC, a new company owned equally by Duke and CaroMont.

Their existing hospitals would remain separate.

If approved, the project could give Charlotte something it has not had before: a major hospital network combining Duke’s academic medicine and specialty care with CaroMont’s growing western Carolinas footprint.

University City Could Become a Hospital Battleground

The 120-bed University City proposal may create the most direct competition.

Atrium already operates a major hospital there, and Novant has a large presence throughout northeast Charlotte.

Duke and CaroMont would enter that market with a hospital nearly the same size as Atrium’s existing University City facility.

Duke has also signaled that its Charlotte expansion could include more than ordinary inpatient care. Company leaders have discussed specialty medicine, clinical trials, research and advanced technology as part of the partnership.

River District Hospital Could Transform West Charlotte

The River District project may be smaller, but its location gives it enormous long-term potential.

West Charlotte currently has fewer major hospital options than many other parts of Mecklenburg County. The new hospital would serve thousands of future River District residents while also sitting minutes from the airport.

A separate $20 million outpatient medical campus has already been announced for the development.

An 80-bed hospital would dramatically expand that healthcare presence and could eventually attract additional medical offices, specialists and support businesses around it.

Charlotte Is Becoming Part of Duke’s Expansion Strategy

Duke Health has historically centered its hospital network around the Triangle.

That has started changing quickly.

Duke acquired Lake Norman Regional Medical Center in Mooresville in 2025, giving it a major foothold north of Charlotte. The Mecklenburg proposals would push Duke directly into the heart of the region.

CaroMont is expanding just as aggressively.

The Gastonia-based system recently opened its new hospital in Belmont, is building a major cancer center and has additional hospital projects planned around the western Charlotte region.

The Projects Could Still Face Competition

Neither Charlotte hospital is guaranteed.

North Carolina requires a Certificate of Need before new hospital beds can be built. Atrium Health, Novant Health and other providers can compete for the same 389 available beds.

The state’s decision could therefore determine which health systems control much of Charlotte’s next wave of hospital growth.

If Duke and CaroMont win approval, both hospitals could open around 2031.

Report: Charlotte Is the #7 Most Dangerous City for Pedestrians in 2026

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Report: Charlotte Is the #7 Most Dangerous City for Pedestrians in 2026

Summer’s final stretch means Americans are still out and about—traveling, attending festivals, and soaking up the last warm evenings before cooler weather rolls in. With so many people on foot, pedestrian safety remains more important than ever.

A new study analyzed the top 36 metro cities to rank the safest and most dangerous cities for pedestrians in 2026.

Charlotte, NC, ranks 7th most dangerous U.S. city for pedestrians in 2026, with 2.53 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents and a Walk Score of only 26.

A clear geographic pattern emerges at the bottom of the rankings: all 10 cities are located in the South or Southwest. The Southwest alone claims half the list, pointing to the continued pedestrian safety challenges facing these largely car-dependent parts of the country.

Albuquerque once again ranks as the most dangerous city for pedestrians. Although its fatality rate improved from 4.68 to 4.41 deaths per 100,000 people, it remains nearly five times higher than Milwaukee’s nation-leading low. Arizona is once again represented by Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson in the bottom 10, with all three cities recording higher fatality rates than last year.

Walkability remains another common concern. Walk Score measures how easily people can reach errands and amenities on foot, with lower scores signaling greater car dependence. Charlotte, Jacksonville, and Nashville receive the lowest Walk Scores in the bottom 10, further illustrating how limited walkability and higher pedestrian risk often appear together.

Rank City Number of Pedestrian Deaths per 100,000 People Walk Score Total Safety Score
26 Memphis 2.39 35 35
27 Fort Worth 2.45 35 34
28 Nashville 2.39 29 31
29 Charlotte 2.53 26 27
30 Las Vegas 3.46 42 25
31 Tucson 3.60 43 23
32 Phoenix 3.60 41 22
33 Mesa 3.60 38 20
34 Jacksonville 3.05 26 20
35 Albuquerque 4.41 43 12

North Carolina Early Voting Is Officially Underway — Here Are the Biggest Races Voters Will See

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North Carolina Early Voting Is Officially Underway — Here Are the Biggest Races Voters Will See

Early voting has officially started across North Carolina, giving voters more than two weeks to cast ballots before Election Day.

Mecklenburg County now has 25 early voting locations open through Saturday, Oct. 31. Voters can use any early voting site in Mecklenburg County instead of their assigned Election Day precinct.

This year’s ballot includes several high-profile races, led by North Carolina’s open U.S. Senate seat. Former Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, is facing Republican Michael Whatley, along with Green Party candidate Michael Dublin and Libertarian Shannon Bray.

Mecklenburg County also spans three congressional districts. In District 12, Democratic Rep. Alma Adams faces Republican Jack Codiga. District 14 features Republican Rep. Tim Moore against Democrat Lakesha Womack, while District 8 includes Republican Rep. Mark Harris, Democrat Colby Watson and Green Party candidate Bo Whitehead.

Voters statewide will also decide a North Carolina Supreme Court seat between Democratic Justice Anita Earls and Republican Sarah Stevens. Three Court of Appeals seats are also on the ballot.

Mecklenburg County Early Voting Hours

  • Monday-Friday: 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  • Saturdays: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Sundays, Oct. 18 and 25: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Final day, Oct. 31: Voting ends at 3 p.m.

Locations are spread across Charlotte and surrounding towns, including Huntersville, Cornelius, Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville.

Missed the Registration Deadline? You Can Still Register

North Carolina allows same-day voter registration during early voting.

Eligible residents can register and vote at the same location. They must provide proof of residence, such as a utility bill, bank statement, paycheck or lease.

Registered voters can also update their Mecklenburg County address during early voting.

Bring a Photo ID

North Carolina voters generally need an acceptable photo ID when checking in.

A driver’s license is one option, but several other forms are accepted. Voters without an approved ID can ask election officials about available options.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Voters can also use the state’s Voter tool here. You can also find out more info on the NC State Board of Elections website here.

7 Best Cloud Video Surveillance Platforms for Multi-Site Businesses in Charlotte (2026)

Sharon Anderson
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7 Best Cloud Video Surveillance Platforms for Multi-Site Businesses in Charlotte (2026)

Running security across several Charlotte locations is very different from protecting a single office or store. Security teams need centralized camera access, consistent permissions, reliable storage, and a fast way to investigate incidents without traveling between properties.

The shift toward cloud video reflects that challenge. The global Video Surveillance as a Service market is valued at approximately $5.88 billion in 2026 and is projected to reach $12.01 billion by 2032.

Charlotte businesses also operate in a changing security environment. CMPD reported 806 commercial burglaries during the first half of 2026. That represented a 40% decline from the same period in 2025, but it still demonstrates why commercial security remains relevant.

For retailers, restaurants, offices, warehouses, healthcare businesses, and growing local companies, cloud video can make multiple locations much easier to manage. Here are seven platforms worth considering in 2026.

1. Coram

Coram is a strong option for businesses that already have IP cameras and do not want to replace their entire surveillance infrastructure.

Its hybrid architecture combines local recording with cloud-based management and AI capabilities. Businesses can manage cameras across different sites from a centralized interface while using compatible existing IP cameras.

For companies evaluating security camera cloud storage, Coram also offers flexible retention options. Its platform supports hybrid local and cloud storage, custom retention policies, and AI-powered search for locating relevant people, vehicles, objects, or events.

This can suit Charlotte businesses expanding from a few locations into a larger regional operation where retaining existing hardware can significantly affect upgrade costs.

Best for: Businesses with existing IP cameras that want centralized cloud management, AI search, and flexible storage.

2. Verkada

Verkada offers a tightly integrated cloud-managed security ecosystem.

Video is stored primarily onboard Verkada cameras while its Command platform provides centralized cloud management, remote viewing, analytics, alerts, and system-health monitoring.

This approach removes the need for traditional NVRs at every location.

For a Charlotte business opening several new stores or offices with little existing surveillance infrastructure, standardizing around one camera and software ecosystem can simplify deployment.

The tradeoff is hardware flexibility. Businesses with large existing third-party camera fleets should carefully review migration requirements before committing.

Best for: New multi-site deployments that prefer one integrated hardware and software ecosystem.

3. Eagle Eye Networks

Eagle Eye Networks stands out for businesses with mixed camera environments.

Its Cloud VMS supports a broad range of IP cameras and can also connect many existing analog systems through bridge hardware. This makes it possible to migrate toward cloud management without replacing every camera immediately.

That flexibility may appeal to growing Charlotte companies whose locations were opened at different times and use cameras from several manufacturers.

Instead of standardizing all hardware first, businesses can concentrate on creating a more consistent management layer across their sites.

Best for: Organizations with mixed legacy, analog, and IP camera fleets.

4. Rhombus

Rhombus takes a cloud-edge approach to video surveillance.

Its cameras process analytics and store footage locally while administrators use cloud software for centralized management. The wider Rhombus ecosystem also includes access control, sensors, alarms, and other physical-security technologies.

For multi-site companies, this can simplify the process of applying similar security policies across offices or commercial locations.

Businesses should consider the hardware model carefully, particularly if they already own a large number of third-party cameras.

Best for: Businesses wanting a unified, cloud-managed physical security ecosystem.

5. Avigilon Alta

Avigilon Alta combines cloud video management with AI analytics and integration into Motorola Solutions’ broader security portfolio.

One of its advantages for existing installations is Alta Cloud Connector. This allows compatible third-party cameras to connect to Alta Video instead of requiring an immediate camera replacement. Some Cloud Connector models can support up to 200 camera streams.

Alta also provides centralized viewing across sites, intelligent search, alerts, and analytics.

This can make it attractive to larger Charlotte businesses or organizations already using Motorola or Avigilon technology.

Best for: Enterprise environments wanting advanced analytics and support for existing compatible cameras.

6. OpenEye Web Services

OpenEye Web Services, or OWS, uses a hybrid approach that combines local recording with cloud-based administration.

Security teams can centrally manage users, permissions, devices, and locations while retaining the performance and resilience of local recording. OpenEye also supports remote video access and AI-powered search.

Its open ecosystem can work with existing cameras and integrate video with systems such as access control, intrusion detection, identity management, and point-of-sale technology.

That combination can be particularly useful for Charlotte retailers, restaurants, and other businesses where video needs to support both security and daily operations.

Best for: Multi-site businesses that want local recording with centralized cloud management.

7. Arcules

Arcules is designed around cloud-based video management for distributed locations.

Its platform can centrally manage multiple sites while connecting compatible existing cameras and sensors. Arcules also introduced Camera to Cloud support that allows selected cameras to connect directly to its cloud platform without requiring an NVR or gateway at the site.

This provides businesses with flexibility in how individual locations are deployed.

A company might keep existing infrastructure at a major Charlotte facility while using a lighter camera-to-cloud architecture at smaller branch offices.

Best for: Businesses wanting flexible cloud deployment across locations with different infrastructure requirements.

What Should Charlotte Businesses Compare?

The right platform depends less on the longest feature list and more on how your business already operates.

Camera compatibility is particularly important. Replacing 100 usable cameras across five locations can change the economics of a project considerably.

Storage architecture matters too. Some platforms record primarily on cameras, others use local appliances, and others combine local and cloud storage.

Remote access should allow authorized users to securely view locations without giving every manager access to every camera.

Businesses should also compare AI search, integrations, cybersecurity, internet-outage behavior, privacy controls, licensing, storage fees, and three-to-five-year costs.

A pilot at one or two representative Charlotte locations can reveal far more than a product demonstration.

Privacy Should Be Part of the Decision

Centralized cloud surveillance makes video easier to access, which means permissions become more important.

A restaurant district manager may need access to three restaurants but not the company’s corporate office. A warehouse supervisor may need live cameras without permission to export recordings.

Platforms should provide role-based controls, secure authentication, and clear auditability.

Businesses should also establish appropriate camera placement and retention policies rather than storing footage indefinitely simply because additional storage is available.

FAQs

What is cloud video surveillance?

Cloud video surveillance uses cloud-managed software for functions such as remote viewing, administration, analytics, storage, or system monitoring. Video itself may still be stored locally, onboard cameras, in the cloud, or through a hybrid model.

Do multi-site businesses need to replace their existing cameras?

Not always. Platforms such as Coram, Eagle Eye, OpenEye, Avigilon Alta, and Arcules can support various existing-camera scenarios, although compatibility should always be verified by exact model.

Is cloud video suitable for businesses with many Charlotte locations?

Yes. Centralized multi-site administration is one of its primary advantages because users, locations, alerts, and video can be managed without maintaining completely separate security workflows at every property.

What happens if the internet goes down?

It depends on the architecture. Systems using onboard or local recording can often continue recording during an internet outage, while some cloud functions may remain unavailable until connectivity returns.

Which cloud surveillance platform is best?

There is no universal winner. Businesses with existing cameras may prioritize compatibility, while companies building new sites may prefer a tightly integrated hardware ecosystem. Retailers may prioritize POS integration, while enterprise teams may focus more heavily on AI, access control, privacy, or compliance.

Conclusion

Cloud surveillance can make a growing Charlotte business easier to secure, but different platforms solve the multi-site problem in different ways.

Coram emphasizes existing-camera compatibility and hybrid cloud management. Verkada and Rhombus offer highly integrated ecosystems. Eagle Eye and OpenEye provide flexible migration paths, while Avigilon Alta and Arcules offer strong options for larger or more varied deployments.

Before choosing a platform, businesses should compare camera compatibility, storage architecture, remote management, cybersecurity, AI capabilities, privacy controls, and long-term cost.

The best system is ultimately the one that can make today’s locations easier to manage while giving the business room to add tomorrow’s.

Can Naz Reid be the missing piece that takes the Charlotte Hornets to the playoffs?

Sharon Anderson
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Can Naz Reid be the missing piece that takes the Charlotte Hornets to the playoffs?

Charlotte’s path back to the NBA playoffs is taking a new turn. The Hornets got Naz Reid from Minnesota in a four-team trade that saw LaMelo Ball and Josh Green join the Timberwolves. The Naz Reid trade is no longer a possibility; Charlotte has instead gone big on a different team name. Fans can check out today’s NBA predictions for the opening fixtures of the 2026–2027 season.

The Hornets’ playoff drought: A center-sized hole in the roster

Despite injuries and defensive turmoils, Charlotte have had difficulty getting young talent to click and pay off. Brandon Miller is still a major cog in the offense, but Ball’s exit changes the offense. When top quality creativity was needed, Ball made it happen; there’s no centre to replace his passing, pace and shot creation.

The Hornets have also had to rely on some consistent front court offense. A problem has been the availability of Mark Williams and a modern big will open up the floor for guards and wings. Reid has that kind of skill set, but Charlotte’s challenge is no longer to fill in that center-sized hole. The club needs to get a reliable lead guard game, get better defense and have chemistry around Miller and his revamped supporting cast.

Why Naz Reid? Profile of a modern, impactful big man

Reid was the first Timberwolves player ever to be selected for the 2023–24 NBA Sixth Man of the Year. In 81 career regular-season games, he scored 13.5 points and tallied 5.2 rebounds, while shooting 47.7% from the field and 41.4% from the three-point range. Those are the reasons he ended up being more than just a regular reserve, able to take the ball to opposing centers off the boards and make plays at mid-range jumpers.

Reid is 6-9, strong with touch and has a quick release. He has the ability to score in the post, finish through contact and take advantage of mismatches against slower big men. His range allows coaches to have an option to play him at center or next to a traditional rim protector. That versatility provides line up flexibility.

Reid was signed to a five-year, $125 million deal with Minnesota in 2025, which now follows him to Charlotte. He doesn’t need to be a short-term rental; the Hornets have found themselves a guy whose shooting can be the foundation for their plans and he is in his prime.

The perfect fit? How Reid could unlock the Hornets’ offense

A dream pairing: The LaMelo Ball and Naz Reid two-man game

It was never that hard to see the original draw of a LaMelo Ball–Naz Reid dynamic. Ball’s passing and speed could have proven to be a dangerous pick-and-pop combination: Reid sets a screen and then cuts to the three-point line. If Reid is run wide, Ball has a lane to go running; if the defence comes in to him, Reid has a clear shot. A shooting center creates space for the opponent to defend as opposed to a regular “rim runner.

That combination, however, isn’t available in Charlotte, as Ball is currently in Minnesota. The Hornets need to do the same with their current guards like Coby White and with Miller being able to attack closeouts. Reid can screen, pop, roll or cut from the elbow, but that’s based on who he gets the ball and how he reads the defensive rotations.

While Reid’s talent is undeniable, a big man’s efficiency can sometimes be derived from the collaborators he has around him. The problem with Charlotte is that they need to be organized and have half-court possession, and Reid can’t shoot the ball for them if he’s all by himself.

Easing the burden on Brandon Miller

In a sense, Reid can help Miller even if Ball isn’t around. A second consistent threat takes the edge off defenses loading up on every possession to the young forward. When Reid gets a center out, Miller can shoot the deep ball or cut quick inside; if teams try to help Miller, Reid can punish rotations for a catch and shoot three.

That support could lead to better shots and better decision-making from Miller. It can also be a hindrance to other wings as it makes it difficult to simplify defensive assignments. Charlotte needs to bounce back, defend the court and minimize turnovers as different backcourt pairings find their rhythm.

The reality check: The high cost of a hypothetical trade

Among the star power Charlotte gave up, the deal also gave them flexibility in the form of future first-round pick 2033, three first-round pick swaps and three second-round picks. This was not just a center upgrade, it was a strategic exchange. Minnesota received Ball’s creation and Green, and Charlotte got Reid, draft leverage and a chance to change its roster.

The risk is clear. Picks don’t matter if Reid can’t turn them into talent or future options and he can’t replace Ball’s playmaking. His shooting can help balance an offense, but the new guards’ production and health and rebounding may be the ceiling for the Charlotte offense. Fantasy managers should also distinguish between Reid’s actual scoring and the potential for increased minutes: it’s all based on lineup decisions.

The verdict: Would Reid make the Hornets a playoff team?

Reid is a guy that’s filling a need and Charlotte has a proven stretch big that is in his prime. He proved to be a starter-level offense in a reserve role in his award-winning 2023–24 season, and his shooting will also be a great option alongside Miller. But how well Ball turns his chips into creation and how well Charlotte utilizes its pickups will be the trade’s success story.

While the balance might be restored, a pickup can’t ensure a round of results. They must have a clear lead guard, healthy contributors, and defensive consistency and continued growth from Miller. Those pieces, if in place, could help Reid push Charlotte toward the play-in race, and then to the postseason. The expectations can change over time and fans can keep checking the updated NBA predictions at Wincomparator. Now it’s not just a matter of whether Reid is going to put together Ball’s old team but whether Charlotte can create a team around him.

CMPD Officer Arrested For Punching and Scratching Woman

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CMPD Officer Arrested For Punching and Scratching Woman

A Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer has just been arrested for allegedly punching and scratching a woman while off duty.

“Over the past several months, we have seen several incidents involving CMPD employees that have been both disappointing and deeply concerning,” said Chief Estella D. Patterson in a press release. “I want to be clear: when an officer violates the law or our policies, we will act swiftly, thoroughly, and transparently. No one in this department is above accountability. While the actions of a few have not met the expectations of this profession, they do not represent the integrity and dedication of the vast majority of CMPD officers who serve our community honorably every day.”

Officer Ana Mora Terrero turned herself in Tuesday at the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office. She was charged with simple assault following an incident Sunday, Oct. 11.

According to arrest warrants, Terrero allegedly punched and scratched the woman in the face. Authorities have not said what led to the confrontation.

CMPD confirmed Terrero was off duty when the incident happened.

Terrero joined CMPD on Feb. 26, 2024, and is assigned to the North Tryon Division.

CMPD Internal Affairs has opened a separate investigation alongside the criminal case. Terrero is currently on unpaid administrative leave while that review continues.

The case is listed under CMPD report number 20261011-2001-00.

Major Defense Contractor Announces $95 Million Advanced Military Factory Near Charlotte – Adding 423 Jobs

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Major Defense Contractor Announces $95 Million Advanced Military Factory Near Charlotte – Adding 423 Jobs

A major defense contractor is planning a huge expansion just north of Charlotte, bringing 423 new jobs and a $95 million investment to Mooresville.

Corvid Technologies will add a new 400,000-square-foot advanced manufacturing facility at its Iredell County headquarters. The expansion will focus on engineering, manufacturing and vehicle launch systems.

“We’re incredibly excited to continue expanding our campus here in North Carolina and investing in the people, facilities, and capabilities that will support Corvid’s growth for years to come,” said Corvid CEO Dr. David Robinson in a press release.

The new jobs will include engineers, electricians, assemblers, technicians, production managers and testers. Average annual pay is expected to reach $81,550, well above Iredell County’s $64,895 average.

Combined, those positions could create nearly $34.5 million in new annual payroll for the region.

Corvid started in Mooresville in 2004 as a small modeling and simulation firm. It has since grown into a defense contractor specializing in computational physics, advanced engineering and precision manufacturing.

The company has worked on military projects involving hypersonic systems, sub-orbital vehicles, rocket motors and missile-defense technology.

North Carolina approved a Job Development Investment Grant to help support the expansion.

Corvid could receive up to $4.45 million over 12 years, but only if it meets hiring and investment targets. State officials estimate the project could add $1.7 billion to North Carolina’s economy during that period.

State and company leaders discussed the project during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow in England.

The expansion will significantly increase Corvid’s manufacturing capacity while adding hundreds of high-paying defense and engineering jobs to the Charlotte region.

North Carolina’s Whitewater Falls Voted As One of America’s Favorite Landmarks

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North Carolina’s Whitewater Falls Voted As One of America’s Favorite Landmarks

From the mystical Appalachian Trail which runs through the east, to the natural phenomenon that is Mississippi’s Petrified Forest, and the esteemed Grand Canyon, the U.S. has volumes to offer when it comes to exploring natural sites and landmarks.

Aqua Expeditions polled 3,113 Americans on which local natural landmarks they would most like to visit. It was revealed that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which lies on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, is the natural landmark most people would like to tick off their bucket list. Unsurprisingly, this destination is the most visited national park in America, having attracted more than 14.1 million visitors last year. It’s no wonder so many others aspire to join the visitor’s book and witness the sprawling natural landscape, along with its year-round wildflower blooms, abundant rivers, waterfalls and forests.

In 2nd place, Niagara Falls emerged as one of the most popular natural landmarks, which is located on the Niagara River. At the Observation Tower at Prospect Point in the Niagara Falls State Park, visitors can behold a natural spectacle: a view of all three waterfalls.

Located in Belleview, Missouri, Elephant Rocks State Park is a geologic reserve and recreation area, and it emerged in 3rd place. It is named for a row of large granite boulders, resembling a train of elephants.

In 33rd position came North Carolina’s Whitewater Falls. The Whitewater Falls are the highest waterfalls east of the Rockies. Given their inaccessibility, there are few visitors and the area has remained underdeveloped for years. Wildflowers, ferns, mosses, and fungi are abundant for hikers to enjoy.

 

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North Carolina’s other natural landmarks voted in the 250 most popular include:

#33 Whitewater Falls.
#47 Looking Glass Falls.
#71 Mount Mitchell.
#117 Jockey’s Ridge.
#167 Sliding Rock.

Here’s When Fall Colors Are Predicted To Peak in North Carolina in 2026

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Here’s When Fall Colors Are Predicted To Peak in North Carolina in 2026

North Carolina is gearing up for one of the most vibrant fall color displays in years.

As cooler temperatures begin to settle across the state, North Carolina’s mountains, valleys, and Piedmont regions are expected to transform into breathtaking displays of orange, red, and yellow hues.

Whitewater Falls in NC

The Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Mountains, known for their stunning views, will once again draw thousands of visitors eager to experience the beauty of the fall season.

Fall colors in North Carolina typically begin appearing in the higher elevations at the end of September, with the peak season running through October.

According to the official fall foliage from SmokyMountains.com, colors are expected to peak throughout most of the mountains and in Mecklenburg county the week of October 20th (about a week later than last year’s fall colors).

Fort Mill Schools Just Ranked #1 in SC and Among Top 1% in America

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Fort Mill Schools Just Ranked #1 in SC and Among Top 1% in America

The Fort Mill School District has just been ranked among the best in the country, earning a place in the top 1% of all US school districts, according to Niche.

The new 2027 study ranked the Fort Mill School District #1 in South Carolina, #1 in the Charlotte area, and #92 out of 10,449 districts nationwide.

The district earned an overall A+ grade, with strong scores across academics, teachers, college preparation, activities and administration. Niche bases its rankings on federal education data, test performance, graduation rates, teacher quality and community reviews.

Fort Mill also ranked among the state’s best places for educators. It finished No. 1 for Best Places to Teach in South Carolina and No. 2 for districts with the best teachers.

Fort Mill’s Biggest 2027 Rankings

  • No. 92 of 10,449 Best School Districts in America
  • No. 1 Best School District in South Carolina
  • No. 1 Best School District in the Charlotte area
  • No. 1 Best Place to Teach in South Carolina
  • No. 1 Best Place to Teach in the Charlotte area
  • No. 2 District with the Best Teachers in South Carolina
  • No. 420 nationally for athletics
  • No. 470 nationally for Best Places to Teach

The national recognition comes despite explosive enrollment growth across Fort Mill, Tega Cay and surrounding communities.

Fort Mill now serves roughly 18,445 students across 20 schools, with a student-to-teacher ratio of about 13-to-1. The district has become one of South Carolina’s fastest-growing school systems.

Recent state testing also shows Fort Mill students performing well above South Carolina averages. In several elementary and middle school grades, more than 80% of students met or exceeded English standards.

The district has remained near the top nationally for several years. Fort Mill ranked 149th nationwide in an earlier Niche ranking and climbed into the top 100 in subsequent years.

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