I-77 South toll lane project

The state proposes a $300 million community investment to revive the I-77 south toll lane project, facing strong opposition from residents in Charlotte neighborhoods. Critics argue the funding does not address core concerns about design and environmental impacts, with the CRTPO set to vote on the project's revival in late September.

North Carolina transportation leaders are offering up to $300 million in incentives to revive the I-77 South toll lane project after the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization rescinded support. The state proposes benefits like green space, bike lanes, and food access improvements in west Charlotte, but community members express skepticism about rebuilding trust and ensuring inclusive public engagement.

North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Secretary Daniel Johnson outlined up to $300 million in additional community investments if the I-77 South toll lane project proceeds, emphasizing economic mobility, neighborhood stability, and corridor reconnection. The project would receive $600 million in state funding plus $100 million in bonus allocation funds, with goals to support small businesses, create 6,000 jobs, and minimize displacement of residents.

Sustain Charlotte, a nonprofit, proposes a nine-point plan to reduce I-77 congestion without expanding toll lanes, following the cancellation of a controversial toll lane project. The plan includes operational improvements, transit expansion, and regional coordination, with some steps starting immediately.

Monroe leaders are attempting to reverse their decision to halt the I-77 South toll lane project, but a proposed amendment by Senator Vickie Sawyer has sparked controversy by requiring Charlotte and other cities to repay $60 million in design costs. The transportation board is concerned about the financial implications of the stalled project.

Monroe City Council reaffirmed support for the proposed I-77 South Toll Lane Project and directed the city's representative to advocate for it during the upcoming Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization meeting. The council approved a resolution backing the project during a special meeting on June 17.

North Carolina lawmakers propose an amendment requiring cities that opposed the I-77 toll lane project to repay $60 million in costs, sparking accusations of coercion from local leaders. Mecklenburg County and six other municipalities withdrew support for the project, and the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization may reconsider its stance at an upcoming meeting.