Connecting Charlotte's Residents on the Cross Charlotte Trail

Posted: August 18, 2020


Like many mid-size cities, Charlotte, North Carolina has faced unprecedented growth in recent years. According to CharlotteFuture.com, starting in 2014, as part of a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), Charlotte residents approved approximately $5 million in City bonds to begin the development of the Cross Charlotte Trail (XLCT), which would stretch roughly 26 miles and bisect the city from Pineville to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Additional CIP monies were approved in 2016 and 2018, and a fourth vote is expected in 2020.

The Cross Charlotte Trail website outlines the five objectives for the project:

  • ​​​​To be nationally recognized by putting Charlotte among the top 25 ​cities in the country with the most multi-use trails  
  • ​To be continuous by closing the gaps between existing trails, thereby creating 26-miles of continuous trail for commuting and exploring as you travel to your desired destination  
  • To be connected by providing a seamless path connecting people to the larger trail network without using a car  
  • To be separated by creating a comfortable trail separating you from vehicle traffic for a safe and enjoyable experience   
  • To be convenient by offering transportation choices and convenient access to neighborhoods and businesses across Charlotte​ 

Phase 1 of the XCLT is the South Charlotte Connector, a ¾-mile connection between Park Road and the McMullen Creek and Four Mile Greenways, tying the Ballantyne area into the Cross Charlotte Trail system. PermaTrak was a key component of the South Charlotte Connector, which consisted of two precast concrete boardwalks totaling approximately 490 linear feet. 

“This is a landmark project for the City of Charlotte and it’s an honor for PermaTrak to be a part of it,” explains Jason Philbin, President of PermaTrak North America. “The Cross Charlotte Trail is a testament to the City’s commitment to improving our outdoor recreation options and greenspace.”

PermaTrak is also involved in the second phase of this project, which is expected to be completed in 2021. At least ten additional phases will be completed in the coming years, delivering long-term economic and environmental improvements to the entire community. We’re excited to see the impact this impressive trail system is already starting to have on the local and regional community! 

 

Topics: Multi Use Trails and Greenways, Boardwalk Construction