Roads, Rails, and Results: PAVE Act Passes with Bipartisan Momentum

Mecklenburg County is celebrating a transformative victory following the signing of the PAVE Act—House Bill 948—into law. Spearheaded by Rep. Tricia Cotham, a Republican from Mecklenburg County, the bill marks a rare and refreshing moment of bipartisan cooperation in North Carolina politics. It passed the state House with overwhelming support in a 102-6 vote, earning backing from every Mecklenburg Democrat present.

The Projects for Advancing Vehicle-Infrastructure Enhancements (PAVE) Act allows Mecklenburg County to place a 1-cent sales tax referendum on the ballot, potentially as early as November 2025. If approved by voters, the revenue will fund a forward-looking $25 billion transportation plan aimed at reducing congestion, expanding public transit, and strengthening the region’s infrastructure.

The funding would be divided strategically: 40% for road improvements, 40% for rail initiatives like the Silver Line light rail, and 20% for expanding bus and microtransit services. With the county’s population projected to grow by nearly 50% by 2050, the PAVE Act is designed to prepare the region for the future while addressing the challenges of today.

Rep. Cotham led the bill through key committees, including Transportation, Finance, and Rules, where it received unanimous approval in Transportation. Her ability to bring together lawmakers from both parties, along with support from local leaders and business groups, was key to the bill’s success. From rural townships to urban centers, the legislation promises targeted investment—such as the estimated $5.4 million a year for Matthews—to help ease traffic and spur local growth.

“This is a huge win for Matthews,” Cotham said on the House floor. “It provides the framework for voters to decide if they want to improve transportation in our highly populated and dense region.”

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles praised Cotham’s efforts, saying she “moved a mountain with this bill,” and highlighting the shared commitment to Mecklenburg County’s future that transcended party lines.

The PAVE Act earned praise from officials across the political spectrum—from Charlotte to Cornelius, Davidson, Huntersville, Mint Hill, and Pineville—as well as from the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. In an era often marked by division, the passage of this legislation stands as a clear example of what bipartisan leadership can achieve when the focus stays on solutions that serve the public.

Now, with the law in place, it will be up to voters to decide whether to take the next step toward building a more connected, accessible, and forward-thinking Mecklenburg County.