April 12. By Dave Vieser. A rapid transit rail line from Charlotte to Lake Norman—once considered a dead issue—has taken on a new life. New developments around the Red Line could connect Charlotte to Mooresville, an increase of roughly 25 miles with as many as 10 stations on what’s known as the O Line.
CATS Redline proposed stations
“For many years the biggest obstacle was Norfolk Southern’s refusal to even discuss passenger trains running on their right-of-way. Recently, we have learned that they are willing to come to the table to discuss this matter, and that is a major change,” said Cornelius Mayor Woody Washam.
Where is the money?
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) officials have raised the possibility of a half-cent sales tax increase to fund the Red Line.
The Red Line would offer rapid-transit rail connections from Lake Norman to Charlotte Gateway Station where passengers could connect with other CATS services, as well as attend business and entertainment venues which would be located and grow along the rail corridor.
Proponents say a north-south rapid-transit corridor supports “traffic reduction along I-77 while driving economic development through the creation of transit-oriented hubs and their surrounding communities from Charlotte to Mooresville.”
Regional clout?
Meanwhile, Cornelius is about to rejoin the regional Lake Norman Transportation Commission headed up by former Mooresville Mayor Bill Thunberg.
The regional alliance faltered eight years ago when Huntersville and Cornelius pulled out.
Davidson Mayor Rusty Knox said Mooresville and Davidson “stayed the course.”
A regional approach to regional transportation issues is more effective than one town at a time.
“Our transportation needs in North Mecklenburg and South Iredell are at a crucial point for the future of all of our municipal needs,” he said.
Community meetings this month will provide the opportunity to speak with members of the Red Line project team, as well as feedback.
In-person meetings
• Tuesday, April 16, 6 to 8 p.m.
Davidson Library
119 South Main St., Davidson
• Thursday, April 18, 6 to 8 p.m.
North County Regional Library
16500 Holly Crest Lane, Huntersville
• Saturday, April 20, 10 a.m. to noon
Sugar Creek Library
4045 N. Tryon St., Charlotte
