With CRTPO vote, the controversial I-77 South toll lanes project is officially back on track

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The controversial I-77 South toll lane project has officially been revived. The Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization voted Wednesday night to approve restarting the project.

It comes after Charlotte City Council reversed it’s position on Monday. That happened after state lawmakers passed a measure saying municipalities voting against toll lanes would have to pay back more than $60 million already invested in the project.

Toll lane supporters are touting a promised $300 million community investment from NCDOT.

Mecklenburg County Commissioners did not reverse their position and remained opposed to the toll lanes. Commissioner Leah Altman says, “I don’t think that this Community Benefits Agreement is airtight. I can see a way out if it becomes inconvenient or difficult for DOT.”

Along with Mecklenburg County, the Town of Matthews also voted no on toll lanes. Davidson voted yes, but say it was “under duress.”