Matheson Avenue Street Conversion

  • Project typeTransportation
  • Project budgetTo be determined
  • Project phaseDesign

part of the city's bicycle program

a photograph from GoogleMaps of the existing roadway with two lanes in each direction and sidewalk with no planting strip

Existing conditions along Matheson Avenue

Project Overview

This project will evaluate Matheson Avenue, from Jordan Place to Virginia Avenue, for a street conversion. The proposed improvements will include removing one through-lane in each direction and reallocating the space for a two-way, left-turn lane and buffered bike lanes. The improvements will also include installing pedestrian crossings and a new traffic signal at the intersection of Matheson Avenue and Clemson Avenue.

The Matheson Avenue Bridge Streetscape project, part of the Applied Innovation Corridor, is adjacent to this one and will provide streetscape improvements along Matheson Avenue between North Tryon Street and Jordan Place.

FAQs

Is the city going to install a concrete diverter island at the intersection of Matheson Avenue and Virginia Avenue?

After further review, the project team has removed the proposed island at Matheson Avenue and Virginia Avenue from the project scope. The proposed westbound right turn lane from Matheson Avenue to The Plaza has also been removed.

Can additional improvements be made to increase cyclist comfort along Matheson Avenue?

The design will incorporate the following elements: 

  • The proposed travel lane width has been reduced from 11 feet to 10 feet to provide extra space between vehicles and cyclists.
  • Vertical elements will be included in the buffer.

Can Matheson Avenue have a two-way cycle track instead of the proposed buffered bike lanes?

A buffered bike lane is the preferred alternative because it maintains access for all residents along Matheson Avenue and the adjacent neighborhoods. A two-way cycle track would introduce conflicts between turning vehicles and cyclists.

   

Project Goals

  • To provide an east-west bicycle connect from the Shamrock Drive Complete Street project to the Cross Charlotte Trail at Jordan Place

  • To reduce Matheson Avenue's effect as a barrier to north-south pedestrian movement, providing additional crossing opportunities along the corridor

  • To improve safety by calming traffic and reducing vehicle speeds along the corridor

Public Involvement

Residents and business owners will have an opportunity to provide input during planned public meetings. the project team will also provide updates periodically through postcards and the website. The following public meetings have been scheduled or have already taken place:

rendering of a cross section of the roadway, with sidewalk, bike lane, buffer, travel lane and turning lane  

Rendering after project completion. For illustrative purposes only.

Vicinity Map

aerial map of project area with the street conversion depicted by a yellow line along Matheson Avenue between Jordan Place and The Plaza