Huntersville plans new greenway with tunnels and bridges to enhance pedestrian access

The Town of Huntersville, NC, held its first budget workshop session on January 31, 2025, focusing on key infrastructure projects and community needs. The discussions highlighted the importance of balancing development with the preservation of natural spaces, as concerns about overbuilding in the area were raised.

One significant topic was the funding for various park projects. Town officials noted that while there are currently 16 acres of town-owned parks, most park land is actually leased from the county. This has led to a call for better understanding and communication regarding community desires for park development and the associated costs, which have exceeded initial budget placeholders.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the potential for diversifying the town's income through carbon project enrollment, although details on feasibility were still unclear.

A major highlight was the announcement of a $1.2 million contribution from Mecklenburg County towards a pedestrian bridge over Highway 73, reducing the town's financial match to $863,000. This project is part of a larger initiative to create a 7-mile greenway connecting downtown Huntersville to Birkdale, which is expected to be completed by 2030. The greenway will include tunnels and bridges designed to enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists by avoiding high-traffic areas, which see over 97,000 vehicle trips daily.

The workshop concluded with a commitment from town officials to continue researching community needs and potential future projects, ensuring that Huntersville remains a vibrant and accessible community for all residents.