The Waxhaw BOC meeting July 28, 2026 focused on transportation, public safety, and long-term planning. While no major votes took place, the discussion revealed how the Board is preparing for important decisions in the coming months.
From regional transportation funding to school traffic safety and future infrastructure projects, the evening showed that today’s planning will shape Waxhaw for years to come.
Waxhaw Supports Keeping I-77 South Moving Forward
One of the first discussions centered on the proposed I-77 South Express Lanes project.
Mayor Robert Murray asked the Board for guidance before an upcoming CRTPO (Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization) vote. The project has already received years of engineering work and approximately $600 million in state funding, but several municipalities have recently withdrawn their support for the current public-private funding model.
Board members acknowledged that toll lanes are far from ideal. However, they also recognized that losing billions of dollars in transportation investment could leave the region with no improvements at all.
The Board agreed to review a formal resolution at the next regular meeting before the mayor casts Waxhaw’s vote on behalf of the town.
Transportation Grants Could Fund Future Waxhaw Projects
Staff also presented this year’s Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization (CRTPO) grant opportunities.
Two projects quickly emerged as leading candidates:
- A new feasibility study for Waxhaw Parkway East
- A multi-use path along Kensington Drive
The Parkway East study generated significant discussion. Staff explained that recent changes to the urban planning boundary now allow engineers to consider alignments that were not possible before.
Commissioners emphasized several priorities:
- Keep future alignments within Waxhaw whenever possible.
- Protect established neighborhoods.
- Avoid impacts to historic downtown.
- Give residents more certainty by removing unrealistic alternatives from consideration.
Several commissioners noted that previous maps left homeowners in limbo because multiple potential routes remained on paper for years.
The Kensington Drive project also received strong support because it would improve pedestrian connectivity between neighborhoods, parks, schools, and existing greenway projects. However, its large local matching requirement means the Board will need to carefully balance priorities before submitting applications.
Serious Concerns Over Waxhaw Elementary School Traffic Changes
Perhaps the most passionate discussion of the evening involved recent traffic changes at Waxhaw Elementary School – as reported by WCNC.
Union County Public Schools recently announced that traffic directors would be removed at several schools and that Waxhaw Elementary would move to a right-turn-only exit pattern.
Town staff made it clear that the Town of Waxhaw was not involved in making this decision.
Police Chief Dexter Wilson and town staff raised several concerns, including:
- Elementary students crossing NC 75 without traffic directors.
- Increased congestion on Old Providence Road.
- Additional traffic at an already dangerous intersection.
- Parents attempting unsafe U-turns.
- More traffic diverted through nearby neighborhoods.
Staff also questioned whether local traffic conditions had been fully considered before implementing what appeared to be a countywide policy.
Commissioners agreed that a one-size-fits-all approach rarely works and stressed that Waxhaw’s unique traffic patterns deserve their own evaluation.
Planning Today to Avoid Bigger Problems Tomorrow
Another recurring theme throughout the evening was financial planning.
As transportation projects move from planning into construction, the town will soon face significant funding decisions. Staff reminded the Board that several major projects will require millions of dollars over the next few years.
Rather than making quick commitments, commissioners continued evaluating which projects provide the greatest benefit for taxpayers while positioning Waxhaw to compete successfully for outside grant funding.
Supporting Waxhaw’s Little League Team
The Board also added a brief agenda item recognizing Waxhaw’s Little League team as it prepares for the Little League World Series. Commissioners discussed ways the town can help support the players and their families during this exciting achievement for the community.
Remembering Waxhaw Resident Jim Black
The Board also paused to honor longtime Waxhaw resident Jim Black, who recently passed away.
Mayor Pro Tem Susanna Wedra reflected on Jim’s many contributions to the community and the positive impact he made over the years. Board members shared their condolences with his family and recognized the legacy he leaves behind in Waxhaw.
While the evening’s agenda focused heavily on transportation and planning, this moment served as a reminder that the strength of our town is ultimately measured by the people who dedicate themselves to making it a better place. Jim Black was one of those people, and he will be missed by many throughout the community.
Looking Ahead
The Waxhaw BOC meeting July 28, 2026 did not feature many final votes, but it laid important groundwork for decisions that will come soon.
Transportation funding, future road projects, pedestrian safety, and school traffic management will all return to future agendas. As these discussions continue, the Board remains focused on balancing growth with public safety, fiscal responsibility, and preserving the character of Waxhaw.
Residents can expect several of these topics to return for formal action during upcoming Board meetings.