Mayor Vi Lyles, City of Charlotte | City of Charlotte website
Mayor Vi Lyles, City of Charlotte | City of Charlotte website
The City of Charlotte has completed the purchase of the O-Line from railroad operator Norfolk Southern Corporation. The acquisition, finalized today, is a key step in the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Red Line Commuter Rail Project.
Last week, the Charlotte City Council voted 10-1 to approve the purchase of approximately 22 miles of the O-Line railroad right-of-way, track improvements, and property rights for $74 million. The council also approved buying about 1.6 acres of property near the Charlotte Gateway Station for $17 million.
“Council’s vote marks a historic milestone as we secure the O-Line for future commuter rail,” said Mayor Vi Lyles. “This is a pivotal moment for our city, reflecting our commitment to creating a robust and efficient transportation network for all of our region.”
Mike McClellan, Norfolk Southern SVP & Chief Strategy Officer, commented on the transaction: “Throughout this process, we have been committed to balancing the needs of our network, our customers, and the interests of the communities we serve. This transaction represents a unique opportunity to leverage an existing rail corridor to connect communities in the region like never before.”
The Red Line is part of both the Metropolitan Transit Commission’s 2030 Transit System Plan and the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan. It aims to provide a regional connection between Uptown Charlotte and northern towns in Mecklenburg County.
"We have been working on this for a long time," said Ed Driggs, Charlotte City Council District 7 Representative and chair of council’s Transportation, Planning and Development Committee. "This is a significant moment not just for Charlotte but for our region."
The commuter rail service will offer up to 42 one-way trips per day. The agreement allows Norfolk Southern to continue its freight service operations and includes an option for potential expansion into Iredell County and Mooresville.
“I greatly appreciate everyone who worked on making this a reality,” said Charlotte City Manager Marcus Jones. “Completing this transaction is an important step for our regional mobility aspirations.”
Charlotte City Council also adopted a resolution supporting legislation that would authorize a sales tax referendum. If passed by the General Assembly, Mecklenburg County voters could decide whether to approve an additional one cent sales tax for investment in roadway and public transportation systems.
Additional details about the Red Line, sales tax referendum, and Charlotte's Strategic Mobility Plan are available online.