Progress on Red Line as Charlotte Prepares for Norfolk Southern’s O Line Acquisition

Charlotte, NC—Exciting developments are underway for the Red Line transit project as city officials anticipate closing on a significant acquisition from Norfolk Southern by September. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in a project that has been over two decades in the making.

Closing in on the Deal

According to Cornelius Mayor Woody Washam, the deal involving the purchase of the rarely utilized tracks and rights of way owned by Norfolk Southern is set to occur in about a month. “Initial funding for that should come from Charlotte for that purchase,” Washam shared, signaling the city’s commitment to revitalizing and advancing this transit initiative.

Funding and Legislative Support

In a positive turn of events, it appears likely that North Carolina legislators will permit Mecklenburg County to place a one-cent sales tax on the ballot for the upcoming November 2025 election. This additional funding mechanism aims to support not only the Red Line but also address the much-needed improvements for local roads.

“We are hopefully nearing legislative action to allow Mecklenburg County citizens to vote on a funding mechanism that will not only bring the Red Line but will provide a major resource of funds to build our much-needed local roads,” Washam added.

A Transit Solution in the Making

The proposed Red Line is designed to connect Uptown Charlotte to Mooresville, making the transit time approximately 45 minutes. This timeframe offers a reliable alternative to I-77 traffic woes, which are often unpredictable.

Red Line Stations

The transit line will feature a total of 10 stations along its route, providing convenient access for residents. Here’s a quick look at the proposed stops:

• Charlotte Gateway Station (Uptown at Trade and Graham streets)
• Derita (near West Sugar Creek Road)
• Harris/NC 115
• Eastfield
• Hambright
• Huntersville (near Veterans Park)
• Sam Furr (last stop in Huntersville)
• Cornelius (Catawba Avenue and South Main Street)
• Davidson (Jackson and Depot street)
• Mount Mourne (near Lake Norman Regional Medical Center)

Overcoming Challenges

Progress on the Red Line faced hurdles back in 2013 when negotiations with Norfolk Southern were stalled. However, renewed active discussions have taken place, allowing the project to gain momentum once again.

As the project edges closer to realization, Mayor Washam expressed optimism: “We are near the finish line with many substantial and successful negotiations now in place,” emphasizing the significant role that Cornelius has played in this ongoing development.

Community Reactions

As Charlotte moves forward with the acquisition and legislative efforts, the future of the Red Line holds promise for many looking to improve commuting options in the region. The coming months will be crucial in determining the timeline and financial feasibility for this long-awaited transportation solution.