Charlotte, NC, July 27, 2025
News Summary
Charlotte is poised for substantial transportation enhancements as the CRTPO outlines its 2028-2037 Transportation Improvement Program. Key projects include the widening of Morgan Mill Road and Interstate 77 to improve regional traffic flow and safety. Public feedback is encouraged before the proposal is finalized, with potential funding from the PAVE Act set to significantly support local transportation initiatives. Residents are also eager for improved light rail services, highlighting a community commitment to enhancing mobility and infrastructure.
Charlotte is currently the focus of a major transportation initiative as the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization (CRTPO) drafts its 2028-2037 Transportation Improvement Program. This new proposal includes several road improvements targeting Iredell, Mecklenburg, and Union counties, aimed at enhancing the regional transport framework significantly over the next decade.
Among the critical projects proposed is the widening of Morgan Mill Road in Union County. The planned expansion involves increasing the road’s capacity from two lanes to four lanes, with the addition of a median, bike lanes, and sidewalks. This upgrade is expected to improve traffic flow and safety for all road users.
Another significant project on the docket is the widening of Interstate 77. The plan proposes adding one lane in each direction between Exit 28 (West Catawba Avenue) and Exit 36 (N.C. 150). This expansion is critical to accommodate the growing number of vehicles on this heavily trafficked corridor, reflecting the need for improved infrastructure to support regional mobility.
As part of the initiative, CRTPO is inviting public comments on the proposed projects, with feedback open until July 31, 2023. This engagement is crucial, as local drivers have expressed a strong interest in not only these road improvements but also in the potential expansion of light rail services.
The transportation landscape in Charlotte may see additional changes due to the proposed PAVE Act, currently advancing in the House of Representatives. If passed, the PAVE Act would authorize a 1% local sales tax earmarked for various transportation projects throughout Mecklenburg County. This tax would provide a much-needed funding stream for road improvements, enhancements to bus systems, and the development of rail infrastructure.
Under the provisions of the PAVE Act, 40% of the sales tax revenue would be allocated for road planning across the county’s six towns, another 40% for rail projects, and 20% for the bus system. To manage and oversee the allocation of these funds, a new 27-member transit authority will be established. This authority will be composed of appointed members from local and state leaders, explicitly prohibiting elected officials from serving.
Ultimately, the opportunity for local voters to decide on the sales tax measure will take place in November. Broad support has emerged for the PAVE Act from local leaders, business groups, and a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, highlighting a collective push for improved transportation infrastructure in the region.
In addition to these initiatives, the ongoing Red Line commuter rail project is currently in the design phase, intending to connect Uptown Charlotte to northern Mecklenburg County. Similarly, the Silver Line is also being proposed as a new light rail system extending from east to west through Uptown, with design efforts underway to assess its feasibility.
The local transit authority, CATS, has outlined plans for significant enhancements to the existing bus system if the sales tax measure is successfully passed. These enhancements could substantially improve public transport accessibility across the region.
As part of the broader urban development, mixed-use projects are being explored, particularly on Nashville’s west side, where connections to public transportation are being considered. Notably, Crescent Communities is leading a significant development plan involving 277 apartments and retail space over a 3.5-acre site, pending rezoning approval.
FAQ
What is the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization proposing?
The CRTPO is proposing a range of major road improvements for the 2028-2037 Transportation Improvement Program, aiming to enhance roadways in Iredell, Mecklenburg, and Union counties.
What specific projects are included in the proposal?
Significant projects include the widening of Morgan Mill Road in Union County and the expansion of Interstate 77, adding additional lanes to improve traffic flow.
What is the PAVE Act?
The PAVE Act is a proposed legislation that aims to establish a 1% local sales tax to fund transportation projects in Mecklenburg County, including roads, buses, and rail development.
When can the public provide feedback on the proposed projects?
Public feedback on the proposed projects is open until July 31, 2023.
Key Features of Proposed Transportation Improvements
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Morgan Mill Road Expansion | Widening from 2 lanes to 4 lanes with a median, bike lanes, and sidewalks. |
| I-77 Widening | Adding one lane in each direction between Exit 28 and Exit 36. |
| PAVE Act | Proposal for a 1% local sales tax to fund local transportation projects. |
| Transit Authority | A new authority to manage funds from the sales tax, composed of appointed members. |
| Red Line Commuter Rail | Project in the design phase aiming to connect Uptown and northern Mecklenburg. |
| Silver Line Light Rail | Proposed east-west light rail system currently in the design phase. |
| Bus System Enhancements | Improvements initiated if the proposed sales tax measure passes. |
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Transportation Projects in Charlotte Area
- Wikipedia: Charlotte
- Carolina Journal: Sales Tax for Charlotte Transportation Projects
- Google Search: Charlotte transportation issues
- Nashville Post: Charlotte Company Seeks Rezoning
- Google Scholar: Charlotte transportation projects
- Axios: CATS Rail Lines and Transit Sales Tax
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte NC transportation
- WBTV: Charlotte Road Closures Due to Utility Project
- Google News: Charlotte transportation taxes
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
