Charlotte : setting the standard for rail transit in mid-sized cities

Abstract

This research paper examines the planning process that went into the development of the City of Charlotte, North Carolina’s mass transportation plan, as well as the implementation of its initial light rail line. The goal of the paper is to highlight the many best practices used by the city, which lead to the success of this initial light rail line. The four main best practices used by the City of Charlotte include planning well in advance of implementation, the citizens of the city must be on board with the project, strong leadership and bi-partisan support are necessary, and to pave the way to success through the use of a low-cost starter system.