Voters Approve Mecklenburg County Tax Referendum to Improve Public Transportation and Transit Systems  

Mecklenburg County voters approved the one-percent local sales tax referendum, marking a historic investment in the region’s transportation future. The measure will generate an estimated $19.4 billion over 30 years to fund dramatic improvements to public transportation and roadway infrastructure across Charlotte and Mecklenburg County.  

The approved tax increase (from 7.25% to 8.25%) will fund a comprehensive transportation and transit plan, including:  

• Road and Pedestrian Improvements (40%): Investments in improved roads, sidewalks, bike paths, and intersection upgrades to improve safety and mobility for all residents.   

• Bus System Modernization (20%): Increased bus frequency, new shelters and benches at around 2,000 stops, and expanded microtransit services to at least 18 new zones throughout the county. 

• Rail Expansion (40%): Construction of the long-awaited Red Line commuter rail, connecting Uptown Charlotte to Huntersville and Davidson. Additional projects include the Silver Line light rail from CLT Airport to Bojangles Coliseum, Blue Line extension to Pineville, and Gold Line streetcar expansion. 

“Big decisions lead to incredible opportunities,” Charlotte City Manager Marcus D. Jones said. “The voters of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have chosen to invest in our city’s future. By committing to the long game and voting ‘yes’ to the sales tax referendum, Charlotte’s infrastructure can now keep pace with our city’s extraordinary growth. This is also an important economic development opportunity for our residents and small businesses.”  

“We’ve taken a pivotal step toward building a safer, more-connected Charlotte,” said Debbie Smith, Director of the Charlotte Department of Transportation. “This investment allows us to move swiftly ahead on critical infrastructure improvements and expanded mobility options to meet the needs of our growing community.”   

“This is a milestone occasion for our communities as this funding will now enable the opportunity to enhance transit services across the county, bringing the 2055 Transit System Plan to life and further moving people forward,” said Brent Cagle, Interim CEO of CATS.  “CATS is immensely proud to have worked with our partners at all levels including our leaders in the General Assembly, the City of Charlotte, the towns of Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville, Mecklenburg County, Charlotte Regional Business Alliance (CRBA) and the community at large. We look forward to putting this plan into action.”   

“Tonight, the people of Mecklenburg County have made a historic choice. With your vote, you have invested in our future,” Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles said. “After years of collaboration, we now have the resources to transform transportation in our region. The Red Line will finally become a reality after more than two decades. We will expand bus service, build the Silver Line, improve our roads, and create safer streets. This is what we can accomplish when we work together. Thank you for believing in our vision.”