The 9.3-mile Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Blue Line Extension (BLE) builds upon the success of the initial CATS LYNX Blue Line, which, since its opening in 2007, has attracted ridership and generated economic development along its 9.6-mile corridor. The BLE also fulfills a long-held vision of connecting Charlotte’s residential neighborhoods with its vibrant arts, entertainment, education, retail, and job centers.

STV conducted environmental impact studies for the $1.16 billion alignment, and, as lead designer, provided preliminary and final design for the double-track light-rail corridor extension. The firm designed all 9.3 miles of light rail tracks, 1.5 miles of relocated freight track, 4.5 miles of widened roadways, 20 grade crossings, 11 stations, 13 bridges, more than 80 retaining walls, and a new maintenance and storage facility. STV also designed upgrades for LYNX’s existing maintenance building. Developing these designs required extensive coordination with freight and passenger railroads as well as the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

To help address parking needs along the corridor, STV designed three new parking garages and one surface lot. Additionally, the firm provided construction administration services for the new parking garages and lot, as well as the light rail maintenance and storage facilities.