CHARLOTTE — UNC Charlotte sits off Interstate 85, but could have a say in the future of Interstate 77.
Charlotte City Council is turning to research experts at the school to help the city figure out the next steps for transportation modeling.
The council is adding $300,000 to its budget to partner with UNC Charlotte.
“The models that shaped I-77, the transportation and land use planning models that drive every major infrastructure decision this city makes, need to be updated for the needs of a rapidly growing city,” Dr. Victoria Watlington said. “Today’s vote is about funding exactly that, in partnership with UNC Charlotte.”
Councilmember Victoria Watlington pushed for this. She says Charlotte has relied on experts from other cities for too long, and it’s time to use the Tier 1 research university in our backyard.
She says they can run models and help Charlotte chart a path forward after last month’s historic vote to rescind support for I-77 toll lane project.
Channel 9 Government Reporter Joe Bruno is speaking with Charlotte City council members about the project. Watch his report on Eyewitness News, starting at 5 p.m.
©2026 Cox Media Group
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/cmg/LH3JSJEF3VBLRJLJQESEAG34AM.png)
