LYNX Silver Line

Alignment

The LYNX Silver Line is planned as a new east-west light rail line running from Belmont through Uptown Charlotte and the airport area, then east through Matthews and Stallings toward Indian Trail — a full corridor of roughly 26–29 miles and 29–30 stations when built out. Given cost pressures, CATS is currently prioritizing a fiscally constrained initial segment of about 10 miles and 16 stations running from the airport to the Coliseum/Ovens area.

In November 2025, Mecklenburg County voters approved a one-cent sales tax that provides a dedicated local funding source covering roads, the planned Red Line commuter rail, and Silver Line light rail. Under the enabling legislation, Silver Line construction can only begin once the Red Line project reaches 50% completion.

Updates

2026-04 — CATS studies scaled-back initial segment

Reporting indicated CATS is evaluating a roughly 10-mile initial segment to improve the project’s competitiveness for federal funding, with ongoing debate over how far east the line should extend into Matthews and Indian Trail.

2025-11 — Voters approve dedicated sales tax funding

Mecklenburg County voters approved a one-cent sales tax funding roads, rail, and transit, providing Silver Line’s first dedicated local funding source.

2021 — Locally Preferred Alternative finalized

CATS finalized the full 29-mile Silver Line alignment as its Locally Preferred Alternative.