July 31, 2008

Charlotte, NC -- The City of Charlotte is collaborating with HNTB, an international planning, engineering and architectural consulting firm, to conduct a charette to identify urban design and transportation opportunities for I-277. 

The four-day charette will consider the proposed vision for I-277, including an expressway cap that was identified in the 2010 Vision Plan and Second Ward Master Plan.  HNTB staff will evaluate transportation and urban design opportunities in select locations in the corridor, with an emphasis on the Belk Expressway between the Kenilworth interchange and Mint Street.  HNTB also will demonstrate how intensive urban development can occur next to the freeway.

HNTB is providing this service to the city pro bono through the company's new HNTB Institute.  The media is invited to the closing session at 2:00 p.m. on August 14 for a presentation of findings by HNTB. This session will be held in Room 267 of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Government Center at 600 East Fourth Street.