CRTPO Votes to Continue Toll Lane Project

CHARLOTTE, NC — Construction will continue on the controversial I-77 toll lanes.

Wednesday, the members of the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization voted to allow NCDOT to continue toll lane projects, which also include lanes on Interstate 485 and Highway 74.

The vote passed 50-12, with 36 votes coming from the City of Charlotte. Representatives from 14 local governments voted in favor of the toll lanes, while 7 opposed.

Before taking a vote, they heard heated arguments from opponents and a presentation by supporters.

“Five years ago we were given an option: accept toll lanes or get nothing,” said one opponent.

“It provides for much needed congestion relief through access to managed lanes; it anticipates growth and improvement through general purpose lanes,” said Harkinson.

Opponents of the toll lanes say they will continue to fight the project.