Red Line

The citizens of Mecklenburg County voted today to pass the one percent local sales tax referendum funding new roads, transit projects, modernization of the county’s bus system, and pedestrian improvements including sidewalks and bike paths. The measure is expected to generate more than $19.4 billion over 30 years, funding long anticipated projects like the Red Line and Silver Line as well as extension of the existing Blue and Gold Lines.

The funding of the Red Line is pivotal to Griffith Lakes as the zoning of the 80-acre Transit Oriented Development planned for the western portion of the property is tied to approval of this planned and now approved commuter line. The path of the Red Line is slated to go through Griffith Lakes, and a transit station is planned near Harris Boulevard.

See below what County Manager Marcus Jones and CATS officials said about this vote, and or more information on the Red Line visit this site.

“Big decisions lead to incredible opportunities,” Charlotte City Manager Marcus D. Jones said. “The voters of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have chosen to invest in our city’s future. By committing to the long game and voting ‘yes’ to the sales tax referendum, Charlotte’s infrastructure can now keep pace with our city’s extraordinary growth. This is also an important economic development opportunity for our residents and small businesses.” 

“We’ve taken a pivotal step toward building a safer, more-connected Charlotte,” said Debbie Smith, Director of the Charlotte Department of Transportation. “This investment allows us to move swiftly ahead on critical infrastructure improvements and expanded mobility options to meet the needs of our growing community.”  

“This is a milestone occasion for our communities as this funding will now enable the opportunity to enhance transit services across the county, bringing the 2055 Transit System Plan to life and further moving people forward,” said Brent Cagle, Interim CEO of CATS.  “CATS is immensely proud to have worked with our partners at all levels including our leaders in the General Assembly, the City of Charlotte, the towns of Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville, Mecklenburg County, Charlotte Regional Business Alliance (CRBA) and the community at large. We look forward to putting this plan into action.”  

“Tonight, the people of Mecklenburg County have made a historic choice. With your vote, you have invested in our future,” Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said. “After years of collaboration, we now have the resources to transform transportation in our region. The Red Line will finally become a reality after more than two decades. We will expand bus service, build the Silver Line, improve our roads, and create safer streets. This is what we can accomplish when we work together. Thank you for believing in our vision.“

For more information about the transportation plan and next steps, visit the information landing page for Meck Connect by clicking this link: Meck Connect and check out the Charlotte Mobility page by clicking this link: Mobility+.