Cannon discusses transportation projects with Obama

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Charlotte Mayor Patrick Cannon is home Saturday after meeting with President Barack Obama and several Cabinet leaders.

Eyewitness news reporter Tina Terry talked with the mayor about the federal support he's looking to get for the Queen City.

Cannon returned from Washington, D.C., full of hopeful expectation.

"All in all, it was a very positive trip," Cannon said.

He sat down with Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and Cabinet members to talk about his priorities for Charlotte.

The task of funding transportation projects was high on his list.

"We're continuing to grow and over the next two years, 2.3 million people around the region will be coming here," Cannon said. "That's a 70 percent growth."

The city's 2030 Transit Corridor System Plan aims to create alternative travel options by creating miles of commuter rail, light rail and streetcar projects that could transform many Charlotte neighborhoods.

Local leaders are still looking for funding sources for many of the projects. Cannon asked the president and other federal leaders for support with federal grants.

"We're on course with Blue Line. We want to make sure that when we start talking about the Red Line and other modes of transit that we find different ways or avenues to explore," Cannon said.

Cannon wouldn't talk about the specific projects discussed but said there would be more talks soon.

"I look forward to seeing the president again in the next few months, if not before, then to continue to push Charlotte's agenda," Cannon said.

Cannon said he also talked to the president about housing and about finding federal grants to lure manufacturers to the region.

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