Project Profile: CATS LYNX Blue Line Light Rail Extension

The CATS LYNX Blue Line Extension is a significant urban light rail infrastructure project extending public transit from Downtown Charlotte to the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte. This 9.3-mile corridor enhancement was engineered to integrate with existing freight rail right-of-ways, expand system capacity with modern rolling stock, and serve as a critical transportation link for the city’s northeast corridor. The project demonstrates a successful multi-source funding model and has exceeded initial ridership projections since its launch.

Technical Specifications

The LYNX Blue Line Extension’s alignment runs 9.3 miles from the 7th Street station in Center City Charlotte to the UNC Charlotte campus. The project’s engineering solution involved extensive negotiation and utilization of existing right-of-way corridors owned by the North Carolina Railroad Company (NCRR) and Norfolk Southern Corporation, minimizing new land acquisition and environmental disruption. The extension includes 11 new stations, four park-and-ride facilities, and associated civil infrastructure such as bridges and retaining walls, all designed by lead engineering firm STV, Inc.

The line operates with Siemens S70 Avanto light rail vehicles (LRVs), part of an expanded fleet capable of forming three-car trains to meet high passenger demand. Each LRV has a capacity of 236 passengers, contributing to a significant increase in the system’s overall capacity. The vehicles are powered by a 750V DC overhead catenary system. The project’s design and operational integration with the existing CATS bus network ensures seamless multi-modal transit for passengers across the metropolitan area.

Key Takeaways

• Strategic Corridor Utilization: The project’s success was heavily influenced by the strategic use of existing freight rail corridors. This approach significantly reduced project costs, minimized environmental impact, and streamlined the construction timeline compared to acquiring new land.
• Collaborative Funding Model: A diversified funding strategy proved essential for the $1.16 billion project. The combination of 50% federal funding (FTA), 25% state grants, and 25% local sales tax revenue provides a robust financial template for future large-scale transit initiatives.
• Connecting Key Economic Hubs: By directly connecting the state’s largest university (UNC Charlotte) with the central business district, the extension created a vital economic and educational corridor. This has spurred transit-oriented development and provided a reliable alternative to vehicular commuting, demonstrably reducing regional traffic congestion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the LYNX Blue Line Extension open?

The LYNX Blue Line Extension officially opened for public service in March 2018, connecting Downtown Charlotte to the UNC Charlotte campus.

Who built the LYNX Blue Line Extension?

The project was owned and is operated by the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS). The primary engineering, environmental assessment, and design services were provided by STV, Inc., while Siemens supplied the S70 light rail vehicles used on the line.