Local leaders oppose four-lane road plan to protect historic district

During a recent government meeting, local officials expressed strong opposition to plans for widening a key road through the historic downtown district of Matthews. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on the community's character and traffic patterns, particularly as the majority of morning commuters from Union County travel to Charlotte via alternative routes.

One commissioner highlighted that the current traffic flow suggests that many commuters prefer using Independence Boulevard rather than passing through Matthews. They argued that widening the road would only encourage more traffic into the downtown area, which is already challenging to navigate, especially during events like the farmers market.

The discussion also touched on the unfinished McKee Road and Greylock Ridge extensions, with officials questioning the rationale behind considering road widening without first assessing the impact of these other projects. The sentiment was clear: many commissioners believe that maintaining the current road structure is preferable to introducing four lanes that could disrupt the historic aesthetic of Matthews.

Citing examples from other areas, such as Colony Road in Charlotte, which has successfully maintained a one-lane structure in each direction, officials argued for a more measured approach to road development. They emphasized the importance of preserving the character of Matthews, suggesting that the community would rather see no changes than risk the destruction of its historic charm.

As the meeting concluded, the consensus among the commissioners was to prioritize the community's character over potential traffic volume increases, advocating for a solution that respects the town's heritage while addressing transportation needs.