Light Rail Support Grows in Matthews, NC Amid Transit Funding Debate

Light Rail vs. Bus Rapid Transit: The Future of Transit in Matthews, NC

MATTHEWS, N.C. — Big discussions are buzzing around the future of transit systems in the Charlotte area, especially in Matthews and eastern Charlotte. With over 900 enthusiastic signatures backing a petition, there’s a strong urge for a Silver Line light rail instead of relying solely on a bus rapid transit system. Folks in this community believe that a light rail could do wonders for residents, ease traffic woes, and bring an economic boost to the region. After all, who wouldn’t want to zip around town on a sleek train?

Community Voices Get Loud

Local residents like Courtney Brock are vocal about their support for a train line, saying, “I think it would be good to have a train locally so people can travel in and out. It would also be great to bring tourists into town.” And she isn’t alone—many residents are echoing her sentiments. Advocates for the Silver Line believe that the convenience and reliability of rail service is a big deal.

“Rail is reliable because it runs on dedicated tracks and usually has a clear pathway all the way to its terminals,” pointed out Christopher Skraba, a supporter of the petition. Nicole Duncan, another advocate, added, “Trains just feel more trustworthy to me. I can’t say the same about busing.”

The Silver Line’s Roller Coaster Journey

But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the Silver Line. Originally, plans for the light rail stretching from east Charlotte to Matthews were scrapped after a change in the transit funding structure. Now, the focus has shifted to a bus rapid transit system, allocating 40% of funding for roads, 40% for bus services, and just 20% for rail.

Matthews Mayor John Higdon expressed his disappointment, stating, “There’s a lot of people that live in this corridor that want light rail, not additional buses.” He believes that the potential for transit-oriented development around a light rail line is “infinitely better” than what bus rapid transit could offer.

Growing Support and Community Advocacy

Community advocates are rallying behind the cause, with online petitions urging city and state leaders to reconsider funding for the Silver Line light rail. “Rail offers a faster, more comfortable ride than bus rapid transit,” explained Dan from Charlotte Rail Advocates, the group behind the petition. Notably, he is also stressing that rail fosters opportunities for more dense housing and vibrant neighborhood development.

Mayor Higdon has been vocal about his ideas for revising the funding model, suggesting that a simple shift to 45-45-10 could potentially free up enough funds to support the Silver Line as a light rail. “It’s about sparking connectivity, growth, and economic development in the area,” he emphasized.

Looking Ahead: Decision Time!

Leigh Altman, the Mecklenburg County Commissioner and Chair of the Metropolitan Transit Commission, is hopeful that the General Assembly will step up to address the draft proposals supported by elected officials from around the region. “We’re waiting for updated numbers from CATS in January about project costs so we can have a clear discussion on what’s feasible,” she said.

The future of the Silver Line remains uncertain, hinging on these critical funding decisions. Advocates are clearly eager to send a message that a light rail system is the way to go. With potential for community growth and economic perks on the line, we can sense the excitement in the air in Matthews. Only time will tell how this debate will unfold!

If you want to stay in the loop about upcoming developments, remember that you can check for updates anytime. Your community’s future might just depend on these transit discussions!