CHARLOTTE, NC (September X, 2025) – Leading on Opportunity, an initiative of the Foundation For The Carolinas that works to improve economic and social mobility for residents, has released a policy brief highlighting the importance of transportation for economic mobility.
Mecklenburg County’s population is expected to increase by over 600,000 residents in the next two decades, necessitating improvements to our transportation infrastructure. The brief outlines research showing that efficient, affordable, and connected transportation systems are not only important for creating more connected communities but also shape long-term economic outcomes for children and families.
“In light of the transportation challenges already faced by residents of Mecklenburg County, and to prepare for the region’s anticipated growth, we are excited to release this policy brief,” said Sherri Chisholm, Executive Director of Leading on Opportunity. “Transportation’s impact on economic mobility is clear, and investments in Charlotte-Mecklenburg’s transportation system are a must for securing a more prosperous future for all residents.”
Key findings in the brief include:
- Reducing local commute times in association with other aspects of opportunity zones were predictive of a 7% increase in adult income, making commute time one of the most powerful predictors of future economic success.
- In New York City, neighborhoods with strong public transit access had an unemployment rate of 8.1%, compared to 12.6% in poorly served areas.
- Nationally, every $1 billion invested in public transit yields $5 billion in GDP and creates ~49,700 jobs.
The brief concludes by driving home the importance of the upcoming transportation referendum to the future of economic mobility in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region.
“Charlotte’s transportation challenges are not just about congestion – they are about opportunity. By passing the transportation referendum and implementing the mobility plan, Charlotte-Mecklenburg can reduce commute times, improve economic outcomes, and unlock the potential of its residents.”
– Leading on Opportunity
Read the full brief here: Transportation as a Lever for Economic Mobility in Charlotte-Mecklenburg