One year ago, Mecklenburg County approved a 1-cent sales tax increase to fund transportation projects across the Charlotte area. In July, NC Gov. Josh Stein signed the P.A.V.E. Act into law. Now, it’s on the November ballot for voters to decide.
What is the P.A.V.E. Act?
P.A.V.E. stands for Projects for Advancing Vehicle-Infrastructure Enhancements. The bill would allow Mecklenburg County to implement a 1-cent sales tax to fund road improvements, public transportation, and create a 27-member Mecklenburg Public Transit Authority to oversee spending. Read the full law.
The levy would raise Mecklenburg’s sales tax from 7.25% to 8.25%, and it’s projected to generate $19.4 billion over 30 years.
Here’s how costs would be split:
- 40% road — think: infrastructure upgrades
- 40% rail transit — including the long-awaited Red Line commuter rail
- 20% bus & micro-transit — expanding CATS routes and on-demand services
Mecklenburg Public Transit Authority
Charlotte City Council is reviewing 130+ applications for the new board. Here’s how the appointments will be divvied up:
- Charlotte Regional Business Alliance: Two appointments
- City Council: Seven appointments
- Foundation for the Carolinas will choose one
- Gov. Josh Stein: One
- Mayor Vi Lyles: Two
- Mecklenburg County : Six
- North Carolina General Assembly: Two
- Towns of Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Matthews, Mint Hill, and Pineville: One each
Council will interview candidates starting Monday, Oct. 27 through Friday, Oct. 31. Nominations will happen Monday, Nov. 10, with final appointments on Monday, Nov. 24.
If the measure fails on Election Day, the board will not be created.
Election Day details
Early voting ends Saturday, Nov. 1, and Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4. Here’s everything you need to know.
