Here are the kinds of projects that could keep Charlotte's economy rolling in 2009.

When native Charlotteans show off their city, they point to the skyline: modern, glimmering and, in a historical sense, built almost overnight.

With the nation's housing woes spreading to commercial real estate, developers are seeking innovative projects that will enable them to keep working.

South End's Interiors Marketplace plans to move its antiques, artisan and home accessories operations early next year to the vacant Myers Park Hardware building.

Growing demand for medical offices is helping commercial developers stay busy during the economic downturn.

The multitenant distribution center created from Winn-Dixie Stores' former complex in southwest Charlotte has landed a major tenant that will push occupancy there to more than 75 percent.

When the housing market slumps, retailers typically slow expansion, and developers put projects on hold. That's happening throughout the Charlotte region, but retail growth is still occurring in certain pockets under the right circumstances.

The Atlanta developer of uptown's Catalyst condos might convert the 27-story tower to apartments before it's ready for occupancy in January.

The cost of building a Ronald McDonald House in Charlotte has increased 35 percent to $13.5 million since plans for the project were announced two years ago.

Uptown Charlotte has dazzled the real estate world this year with one of the nation's lowest office vacancy rates.

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Doug Smith
Doug Smith writes on business and development for The Charlotte Observer.