Charlotte, North Carolina, November 26, 2025
In a strategic step towards improving public transportation in Charlotte, the City Council has appointed members to the new Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority Board. The appointments follow a one-cent sales tax increase approved by Mecklenburg County voters, which will generate $19 billion for transit projects over the next 30 years. The diverse board of 27 members, including local business owners and community transit users, is set to oversee significant enhancements to the city’s transit infrastructure, ensuring that a variety of perspectives shape the future of transportation in the region.
Charlotte MPTA Board Established to Boost Public Transit
New board appointments aim to enhance transportation infrastructure in the Queen City
Charlotte, North Carolina – In a decisive move to enhance the city’s public transportation system, the Charlotte City Council has completed its appointments to the newly established Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA) Board. This action follows the recent approval of a one-cent sales tax increase by Mecklenburg County voters, aimed at funding transit projects over the next three decades. The tax is projected to generate $19 billion, with allocations designated for rail, roads, and buses.
The MPTA Board, now fully constituted with 27 members, is set to oversee the expansion and improvement of Charlotte’s transit infrastructure. The board’s composition reflects a diverse cross-section of the community, including small business owners and active users of the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), ensuring that those with firsthand experience contribute to shaping the future of public transportation in the region.
Key Appointments to the MPTA Board
Among the latest appointees are Katrina Young, Corine Mack, and Cameron Pruette. Young secured her position after receiving the requisite six nominations from council members prior to the meeting. Mack and Pruette were appointed following a council vote, each garnering seven votes. These appointments fulfill the city’s commitment to appointing 12 members to the MPTA Board, with the remaining members selected by the Mecklenburg County Board of Commissioners and representatives from Mecklenburg County’s towns.
The Role of the PAVE Act
The formation of the MPTA Board is a critical component of the PAVE Act, enacted by the North Carolina General Assembly on July 1, 2025. This legislation authorizes Mecklenburg County to implement the one-cent sales tax increase and establishes the MPTA as the governing body responsible for overseeing transit projects. The board’s diverse membership is designed to ensure that a wide range of perspectives and expertise guide the development and execution of transit initiatives across the county.
Transforming Charlotte’s Public Transportation Landscape
With the board now in place, the MPTA is poised to lead the charge in transforming Charlotte’s public transportation landscape, aiming to provide more efficient, accessible, and sustainable transit options for the community. This initiative aligns with a broader vision of fostering economic growth through improved transportation infrastructure that caters not only to commuters but also encourages small business innovation and job creation in the region.
Benefits of Local Engagement in Transit Development
The inclusion of small business owners on the MPTA Board is a pivotal strategy. It ensures that the insights of those on the ground level of Charlotte’s economy are incorporated into transit planning, which can help stimulate local businesses and attract investment. Engaging a community-oriented board fosters collaboration between public transport and local commerce, creating a more interconnected and thriving economic environment.
Looking Ahead
As the MPTA embarks on its mission, the importance of staying attuned to the evolving needs of the community cannot be overstated. The ability to adapt to changing demographics, work patterns, and commuting preferences will be critical. Charlotte’s commitment to developing a robust public transportation system positions it to be a national leader in transit innovation and gives its economy a solid foundation for future growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA)?
The MPTA is a newly established governing body responsible for overseeing the expansion and improvement of Charlotte’s public transportation system. It was formed following the approval of a one-cent sales tax increase by Mecklenburg County voters, intended to fund transit projects over the next 30 years.
Who are the latest appointees to the MPTA Board?
The latest appointees are Katrina Young, Corine Mack, and Cameron Pruette. Young secured her position after receiving the required six nominations from council members, while Mack and Pruette were appointed following a council vote, each receiving seven votes.
What is the PAVE Act?
The PAVE Act, enacted by the North Carolina General Assembly on July 1, 2025, authorizes Mecklenburg County to implement a one-cent sales tax increase to fund transit projects. It also establishes the MPTA as the governing body responsible for overseeing these initiatives.
Key Features of the MPTA Board Appointments
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Members | 27 members |
| City Council Appointments | 12 members |
| County Appointments | 6 members |
| Town Appointments | Representatives from Mecklenburg County’s towns |
| Recent Appointees | Katrina Young, Corine Mack, Cameron Pruette |
| Purpose | Oversee expansion and improvement of Charlotte’s public transportation system |
| Funding Source | One-cent sales tax increase approved by Mecklenburg County voters |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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