One of Charlotte’s most anticipated transportation projects is finally becoming a reality. Construction has officially begun on the Rail Trail Bridge, which will connect Uptown and South End with a dedicated pedestrian and bicycle crossing over I-277.
The $23.8 million project will create a direct, car-free connection between the CATS Blue Line’s Brooklyn Village Station and the existing Rail Trail near Carson Street.
To make way for construction, the inside lanes of I-277 in both directions closed on June 2 and are expected to remain closed for about four months. Additional overnight closures may occur through June 9 as crews demolish and rebuild the freeway median.
The now fully-funded bridge will feature two cable-stayed arch spans and is designed to eliminate one of the biggest gaps in Charlotte’s trail network.
Drivers can also expect periodic traffic impacts over the next several years as construction continues.
City officials recommend using Waze for real-time traffic updates and detours.
The project is expected to be completed in 2028, creating a seamless connection between two of Charlotte’s fastest-growing neighborhoods. You can find out more on the city’s rail trail bridge page here.
