May 30. By Dave Yochum. In terms of economic development, time is of essence to move the Red Line forward as soon as possible since it will take nearly 10 years to implement, according to Cornelius Mayor Woody Washam.

“Mobility is a critical component for a world class region like Charlotte,” the four-term mayor said.

The city of Charlotte has reached an understanding with Norfolk Southern to use the O Line to connect Lake Norman to Charlotte. The track, infrequently used for freight, runs near Hwy. 115 through downtown Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville. Transit-oriented developments like Antiquity and Bryton in Huntersville were built in anticipation of a north-south commuter line connecting the suburbs to Charlotte, although a half-cent sales tax never benefited North Meck transit.

CATS Redline proposed stations

Opportunities

Major cities like Charlotte move people around through a transit system that includes rail.

Norfolk Southern finally said they were open to discussions last fall after 10-plus years of trying.

“This will create opportunities which will connect major job centers throughout our region,” Washam, a long-time commercial banker, said.

Woody Washam | Photo by Jason Benavides

Regional leaders, especially those in Charlotte, say a deal with Norfolk Southern could be completed this fall. But Washam said there are “multiple steps required to bring this to fruition.”

One of them is getting the NC Legislature to get a sales tax increase on the ballot for transportation projects. There’s no clear indication Republican leaders are on board.

Optimism

Mayor Washam is optimistic.

“This is an opportunity to enhance economic development opportunities throughout the region,” he said.

“It will also create additional job centers providing great employment opportunities throughout the region.”