Charlotte's vibrant streets are experiencing heavy traffic and ongoing construction.
A new survey reveals Charlotte residents are eager for fewer traffic jams and construction projects in the city. With ambitious plans underway, including NCDOT’s I-77 toll lane expansion and upcoming airport taxiway construction, locals hope for a smoother commute by 2025. Concerns also arise over an influx of new apartments and restaurants, reflecting a need for balance in the city’s growth amidst the rising traffic challenges.
Charlotte, the vibrant and bustling city we’re all proud to call home, is gearing up for some major changes in the coming years. With a new survey revealing what residents want less of, it’s clear that there’s a lot on the minds of the folks here. Hidden behind the backdrop of gorgeous skyline views and delicious Southern cuisine lies a pressing issue: traffic and construction are getting on everyone’s nerves!
In this survey, it was traffic that topped the list of things people want to see less of. And can you blame them? Sitting in gridlock has become a daily struggle for many Charlotteans. Alongside traffic woes, construction has also been a hot topic. With so many projects popping up, it’s no wonder people are feeling overwhelmed.
Interestingly, among the diverse range of comments, one stood out and received over 400 likes, indicating a widespread echo of opinion. A resident expressed their hope for fewer breweries in the city. It seems at least some Charlotteans are feeling that there are just too many options in the craft beer scene, pulling focus from other establishments. However, as our city continues to grow, many also wish to see a healthy balance in the restaurant scene. In 2024 alone, there were an impressive 88 new restaurant openings, but with closures following suit, folks want to ensure that there’s still a variety.
Furthermore, with a record number of new apartments on the horizon, around 15,000 new units were projected for 2024. While some residents welcome the housing boom, there’s a notable demand for fewer new apartments, particularly those that come with high price tags and luxury amenities. With eight anticipated developments, including high-rise apartments set for 2025, many are pleading for preservation efforts to take precedence over new construction.
In an effort to tackle some of these traffic woes, local leaders have approved the NCDOT’s plan for I-77 toll lane expansion. While this is a step in the right direction, don’t expect instant results. Change takes time, and many residents are still feeling the pinch on their daily commutes. In fact, Charlotte city council member Tiawana Brown expressed her frustration with I-77 traffic, saying she would rather take a helicopter than sit in her car!
Just around the corner, a significant change is coming to West Boulevard near the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Starting on January 3, 2025, a portion of the road will permanently close to pave the way for the construction of a new taxiway. This closure will stretch from Steele Creek Road to Piney Top Drive and is expected to last approximately four months. Traffic will be rerouted to Byrum Drive and Shopton Road, and new traffic signals have been strategically planned to help ease this transition.
The taxiway construction is part of the major Fourth Parallel Runway Program at the airport, which aims to enhance safety by reducing the need for aircraft to cross the center runway. This extensive project will cover a colossal 10,000 feet in length and 150 feet in width, with hopes of opening a new runway (1C-19C) by 2027.
As this construction looms, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is bracing itself for a bustling winter holiday season. From December 20 to January 5, nearly three million passengers are expected to travel through the airport, marking a 6% increase from the previous year. To accommodate this rise, around 25,000 flights are scheduled, reflecting an 8% boost compared to last year. Travelers will have their work cut out for them navigating the busy airport!
As Charlotteans continue to voice their concerns over traffic, construction, and the rapid growth of apartments, it’s clear that changes are needed. While the city is blossoming with new developments, maintaining a balance is crucial. Let’s all hope that 2025 brings a smoother ride through our beloved city, because, at the end of the day, we all just want to enjoy the charm that is Charlotte!
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