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Matheson Avenue Makeover: A Safer, More Connected Corridor Begins Construction

Matheson Ave. Map

Construction is officially underway on a transformative project to improve safety and mobility along Matheson Avenue in Charlotte. Starting April 17, 2025, staging for the $12.9 million initiative will begin, with lane closures expected the week of April 21. The project, managed by the Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT), aims to enhance conditions for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.

 

A Corridor in Need of Change

Matheson Avenue has long been identified as a high-risk area within Charlotte’s High Injury Network, a designation based on data from 2013 to 2021 highlighting streets with frequent severe injuries and fatalities. Notably, in 2017, a cyclist tragically lost their life in a hit-and-run incident on this very avenue. More recently, in 2022, a pedestrian was fatally struck near the intersection of Matheson Avenue and North Tryon Street. These incidents underscore the urgent need for comprehensive safety improvements along this corridor.

Project Overview

The Matheson Avenue project is a key component of Charlotte’s Vision Zero initiative, which aspires to eliminate traffic-related deaths and serious injuries. The planned enhancements include:

  • Reducing the roadway from four lanes to two to calm traffic.
  • Installing buffered bike lanes and a two-way left-turn lane.
  • Upgrading sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.
  • Improving connections to the LYNX Blue Line and the Cross Charlotte Trail.

These changes aim to create a safer, more accessible environment for all users of Matheson Avenue.

Construction Phases

To expedite the project’s completion, CDOT and its contractors will implement a phased construction approach:

Phase 1:

  • Begin at Pinckney Drive with curb ramp reconstructions and median improvements.
  • Remove existing medians and rebuild curb ramps at Clemson Avenue.
  • Construct curb extensions to enhance pedestrian safety.
  • Reduce Matheson Avenue to one lane in each direction.

Phase 2:

  • Resurface the roadway.
  • Apply new road markings for the buffered bike lanes and two-way left-turn lane.

The project is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2025, contingent on factors such as weather conditions and the availability of specialized contractors.

Community Engagement and Gratitude

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the residents who took the time to provide their input on the design of this project. Your feedback has been invaluable in shaping a corridor that reflects the needs and desires of the community. At Sustain Charlotte, we also participated in the public engagement process, advocating for a design that prioritizes safety and accessibility for all users.

Community Impact and Resources

Residents can expect temporary lane closures and construction activity throughout the project duration. For detailed information on lane closures and construction updates, please visit the CDOT Street Closings page.

For questions or concerns, contact CDOT at [email protected] or call 704.336.4119 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

This project represents a significant step toward a safer and more connected Charlotte. By reimagining Matheson Avenue, the city is prioritizing the well-being of its residents and fostering a more inclusive transportation network.

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