Public gets a peek at rail trail tying South End to uptown

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The public got a look at plans to transform the Charlotte Rail Trail for the first time Thursday evening.
 
The nearly 4-mile project is expected to bring culture and character to several Queen City neighborhoods.

IMAGES: Public gets a peek at rail trail tying South End to uptown
 
A team of architects and designers have been working on the trail's framework for nearly a year which includes a network of gardens, public art and unique spaces and activities. A construction date has not been set.
 
Tobe Holmes with Center City Partners said the Rail Trail will be an asset for Charlotte tying South End to Uptown along the Lynx Blue Line, where plenty of construction is already underway.
 
"This is an investment in Charlotte. This is a destination. So when people stop in Charlotte they'll say, 'Let's stop and check out the rail trail,'" he said.
 
The project has received a $400,000 grant from Artplace America and an additional $20,000 grant from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Community Foundation.
 
The next steps will include developing a master plan for the trail, seeking sponsors and working with sponsors and adjacent property owners to design and enhance specific places on the trail.

WSOC