Shannon Binns of Sustain Charlotte discusses why he believes raising Mecklenburg's sales tax for transit and transportation is a good idea.

Supporters call the referendum a once-in-a-generation chance to expand rail and roads — though money doesn’t always stretch as far as envisioned.

In Charlotte, much of the revenue from a higher sales tax would fund upgrades for pedestrian safety, intersections and sidewalks — not just new or wider roads.

If voters approve a higher sales tax in November, 20% of the money would go toward buses. The goals are to improve frequency, stops, safety — and expand microtransit after years of declining ridership.

The transit plan on November’s ballot would aid biking, cyclists say — but safety can’t be built overnight.

An increase in Mecklenburg’s sales tax to 8.25% would raise billions for roads and transit upgrades — prices would rise slightly on most things you buy.

Transit/roads bill gets unanimous approval in House transportation committee; bill removes some flexibility on spending.

Money from an increased transit sales tax might replace — not supplement — existing spending on roads, fueling more spending on non-transportation projects.

Lease negotiations underway with American Airlines could shape the airport’s next decade of construction: more gates, a second entrance, additional international flights?

Independence Boulevard plans pushed back, and I-77 tolling proceeds