Streetcar construction project to disrupt uptown traffic

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Major road closures began in uptown Charlotte Tuesday as construction for phase two of the CityLYNX Gold Line Streetcar project moves into the Center City.

[LINK: TRAFFIC MAPS]

For those who work, play, live or drive through uptown, making your way around town is going to get trickier.

"I mean, traffic is always a concern,” said Cody McKinney, who works in uptown.

The road construction will affect drivers and Charlotte Area Transportation System buses.

"I will have to think about that and go a different way,” said Patti Frazier, who also works in uptown.

The westbound lanes of East Trade Street were supposed to be closed between College and Tryon streets on Tuesday, but it has been postponed until July 19. That area will be shut down for two months.

Also from Tuesday through Aug. 6, the westbound lanes of West Trade Street will be closed between Graham and Cedar streets and Irwin Avenue and the Interstate 77 North connector.

The westbound lanes of West Trade Street between Pine and Graham streets will be closed from Tuesday through July 16.

"I worry about it,” Frazier said. “It's gonna make me that much later getting to work."

"It's definitely something to plan for, but hopefully it won't be too bad,” McKinney said.

Department of Transportation officials said the closures are necessary for water utility work and pipe, storm drain and water main installation.

"I'm sure that it'll be good for the city,” Frazier said.

"I don't use the streetcar personally, but I know lots of people who do and lots of people get into work that way, so it’s probably a good thing to expand public transportation,” McKinney said.

Transit officials said access to businesses and homes won’t be affected. Pedestrian access will also be maintained for much of the West Trade Street closure.