Charlotte Red Line commuter rail project gets $37.9 million

Meanwhile, as reported by Trains, Charlotte Red Line commuter rail project moved forward Monday. In addition, Charlotte City Council approved $37.9 million for the next phase. It will serve communities north of the city.

Red Line design work and environmental report

Separately, HDR Engineering will handle work on the design. It will bring the project to the 30% stage. Also, it will prepare the environmental report.

For example, council documents list stations, track, and grade crossings in this phase. They also include a maintenance facility. Completion is expected by the end of 2027.

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“The Red Line has been talked about for years,” Councilwoman Dimple Ajmera said during the meeting, according to the Charlotte Observer. “This step moves us closer to reality.”

Charlotte Red Line commuter rail project route and funding

Still, the city bought Norfolk Southern’s O-Line right-of-way in 2024. It is the planned route of the 25-mile Red Line.

Meanwhile, voters approved a ballot initiative last November. It established a 1% sales tax to fund the Red Line and other transportation projects, according to CATS.

At the same time, the legislation approving the tax sets a condition. At least 50% of the commuter line must be completed first. Only then can Charlotte address any other rail project on its agenda.

Also, the nine-station Red Line would run north from Charlotte’s Gateway Station to Davidson, N.C. Davidson is in the Lake Norman area. In addition, the project could eventually extend another 3.3 miles north to Mount Mourne.

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