All Aboard Charlotte reveals passenger rail proposal using CSX tracks

MATTHEWS, N.C. — Local organization All Aboard Charlotte has proposed a passenger rail project using existing CSX freight tracks to connect Charlotte with Union County.

The group estimates the proposal would cost slightly more than $900 million, offering a significantly lower-cost alternative to the region’s long-delayed $7.4 billion Silver Line light rail initiative.

The group presented its proposal following more than 18 months of research into regional transportation alternatives.

While regional authorities have discussed passenger rail between Charlotte and Matthews for decades, the Charlotte Area Transit System currently plans to construct only a shortened segment of the Silver Line between Charlotte Douglas Airport and Bojangles Coliseum to reduce expenses.

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Instead of constructing new light rail tracks, the All Aboard Charlotte proposal relies on reaching an agreement with CSX to lease existing rail lines.

The project would require building 10 new stations, including planned stops in East Charlotte, Matthews and Monroe, extending train service further into Union County than previously planned. A building in downtown Matthews has also been identified as a potential station site.

Chris Wallace serves as the secretary for All Aboard Charlotte and is a frequent light rail user.

He explained the group’s motivation behind developing a lower-cost alternative to traditional light rail. “How can we get the best connections for a price we actually can fund?” Wallace said.

He noted that passenger rail provides significant economic relief from fuel costs. “This is a huge benefit to everyone inside the city and a huge benefit to everyone outside the city because you don’t have to pay. What are we up to? $4 or $5 a gallon,” Wallace explained.

All Aboard Charlotte has presented its proposal to the MPTA, the Matthews Board of Town Commissioners and representatives from Monroe.

Although the organization has not yet engaged in direct discussions with CSX, members point to previous lease agreements the freight company made for passenger rail operations in Miami, Wash., D.C. and Boston as evidence that the approach is achievable.

Wallace emphasized the importance of evaluating alternative transit solutions for the growing metropolitan region.

“Why wouldn’t we do it this way? And why wouldn’t we explore alternative options?” Wallace said. “This is something that matters to every citizen in Mecklenburg County and on the outskirts of Mecklenburg County.”