NFL Panthers Owner David Tepper "continues to take steps to boost the team's infrastructure and development growth," as the team has hired Steelers VP/Planning & Development Mark Hart to the same position, according to Peralta, Rodrigue & Cope of the CHARLOTTE OBSERVER. In August, Hart "oversaw proposals to fund capital developments for Heinz Field and other Pittsburgh sports facilities using tax dollars." Both Hart and new Panthers President Tom Glick will be "key to the capital and infrastructural development of the organization," as development plans "will likely include North and South Carolina" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 12/13).
TWO STATES, ONE TEAM: In Charleston, Andy Shain in a front-page piece reports the Panthers "plan to build a team headquarters and practice facility" in York County (S.C.), "just over the state line" from Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. This will give South Carolina a "bigger role in the region's only pro football franchise." Sources said that the team is looking for a site "large enough for its needs as well as development of neighboring hotels, restaurants, stores and residences" (Charleston POST & COURIER, 12/13). In Charlotte, Peralta, Rodrigue & Cope note the Panthers "have not yet reached out to York County Economic Development." Glick said the reported interest in a York County site is "just speculation," and that the team remains in the evaluation process. However, YCED Dir David Swenson said that the agency would be "interested in talking" with the team about possible development. The Panthers' practice facilities are "well-behind those of other teams in the NFL, in part because they are outdoors" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 12/13).
