Voters in Mecklenburg County approved a bond package that will lead to 30 transformative projects in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools facilities throughout the county.
By approving the bonds, voters signaled support for a strong public school system in Mecklenburg County. A strong public school system is critical to a growing area – Mecklenburg County’s population has increased by 21.6% over the past decade. These upgraded school facilities are needed to keep pace with that growth.
The investments to be made include three new middle schools, a regional athletic facility, a health-sciences magnet high school, and 25 renovation or replacement projects. A key driver in many of the projects is enhancing security measures to better protect students.
“If we want equal opportunities and better outcomes for our students – especially our most vulnerable students – we must provide them with healthy and safe learning environments,” Mary McCray, campaign co-chair, former CMS school board chair, and retired educator, said. “This bond will help keep our students safe and give them opportunities to learn in facilities they deserve.”
Approval of the 30 projects also will lead to better learning environments for students, who represent our future workforce.
“A strong public school system is vital to the health and success of our community and our economy,” Ralph Lopez Massas, campaign co-chair and senior vice president at American Airlines, said. “We are grateful to the voters for supporting investments in our future.”
The Charlotte Regional Business Alliance was proud to lead the Vote Yes for School Bonds campaign, along with a diverse and robust committee of volunteers from across the county.
“The Vote Yes coalition includes people from all parts of the county and all walks of life,” David Longo, campaign co-chair and chairman and CEO of CBI Workplace Solutions, said. “We all agree on one thing: Mecklenburg County needs a strong public school system. And with voters approving these bonds, we all agree that our schools and our local economy will be strengthened.”
The last school bond package presented to Mecklenburg County voters in 2017, totaling $947 million, was also approved. Progress on those projects may be reviewed here. This year’s bond package will make an investment of up to $2.5 billion. CMS has committed to continued transparency in sharing information about ongoing school projects.
