Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority
Coverage of Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority in the Nexus archive.
- Charlotte’s transportation leader sees opening for new industry here
David Howard leads the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority, a new governing body created by the state legislature following local voters' approval of a 1-cent sales hike. The MPTA is responsible for steering $17.5 billion over 30 years to improve bus and light-rail projects. Furthermore, the authority will take ownership of the Charlotte Area Transit System beginning January 1, 2027.
- Charlotte transit repairs will cause temporary French Street closure
Charlotte's French Street Station will temporarily close for concrete repairs, causing Gold Line streetcars to bypass the station and adjust service to Johnson C. Smith University. The closure is part of infrastructure maintenance, while the transit system also plans to implement a new fare policy for the Gold Line over the next 12 to 18 months.
- In debate over Red Line stops, historically Black neighborhoods worry about being excluded
Charlotte's proposed Red Line commuter rail has a nearly six-mile gap near historically Black neighborhoods, prompting concerns about exclusion. A subcommittee rejected a stop at Craighead Road and North Graham Street, citing low ridership and federal funding risks, but the full board will decide in August.
- CATS to crack down on fare evasion, introduces new fare plan
CATS is ending cash payments and implementing a new fare plan requiring Gold Line riders to pay for the first time. The changes, approved by the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority, have sparked public dissatisfaction, with riders criticizing reduced accessibility and unreliable payment technology. Fares remain unchanged, and the transition to a paid system is framed as a safety measure.