Charlotte’s massive transpo plan is getting worked out, but hurdles still remain
Written by RT&S Staff
Maryland officials have rejected a proposal to build a new rail tunnel underneath the city of Baltimore.
Charlotte, N.C., officials are still working out the details of a massive $13.5 billion boost, called the Transformational Mobility Network, for transit and transportation projects.
Some of the pressing issues are shifting the spending ratio on bus, rail, roads, pedestrian safety, bike lanes, and greenway projects (originally 90% went to bus and rail and 10% went to the rest; now it is at 80-20); coming up with a backup plan if a 25-mile commuter line project does not happen; pursuing available federal loans; lowering the projected tax revenue growth (it was 4.4%, but now it is 3.8%); and delaying the start of the proposed one-cent tax by one year to July 2023.
Project highlights include a 26-mile east-west light-rail line called the Silver Line and expansion of the existing streetcar line and Lynx Blue Line. Construction on the 25-mile commuter line would begin in 2033, with the streetcar line expansion happening the following year. The Silver Line would be built in two phases starting in 2035. The light-rail line extension to Ballantyne is expected to be complete in 2041.
Federal funding is expected to cover 40% of the total cost, with 60% coming at the local level.
A big hurdle is getting support from surrounding communities and a Republican-led state legislature. The Charlotte City Council is expected to start an outreach effort to politicians and governing bodies.
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