Good morning, this is Charlotte Local Pulse for March 22, 2025.

We're starting with some somber news today. A person has died following a crash on I-485 in west Charlotte. The incident occurred early this morning, causing significant traffic delays. Authorities are urging drivers to use alternate routes while they investigate the scene.

In more positive developments, Charlotte's job market is showing strong signs of growth as we move further into 2025. The healthcare and government sectors are leading the way, accounting for a whopping 97% of our city's net job growth last year. This trend is expected to continue, with particular demand for roles like surgical technicians and financial analysts.

Speaking of finance, our city's status as a banking hub continues to grow. With Truist Bank's headquarters now firmly established here, Charlotte proudly claims three of the country's six largest banks. This has led to increased opportunities in roles such as loan processing.

On the weather front, it's shaping up to be a beautiful spring day. Expect sunny skies with highs around 70 degrees, perfect for outdoor activities. Looking ahead, we're in for a mild weekend with a slight chance of showers on Sunday.

In community news, there are two great events happening today for those looking to get involved. The Rail Trail Clean Up is taking place from 10 AM to 1 PM, offering a chance to help beautify our city. For car enthusiasts, Caffeine and Classics is happening at Streetside Classics from 9 AM to noon.

Turning to public safety, police are investigating a shooting in southeast Charlotte that occurred yesterday. One person was injured, but thankfully their injuries are reported to be minor. Authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.

In sports, excitement is building for the upcoming high school basketball state championships. Our local teams have been putting in intense practice sessions, and we'll be cheering them on next week.

On the business front, we're seeing continued growth in the STEM sector. A recent analysis by WalletHub ranked Charlotte as one of the top metro areas for STEM professionals, particularly noting our high median annual wages for these roles when adjusted for cost of living.

Lastly, we want to highlight a heartwarming community initiative. Local retirement communities are banding together to create a massive quilt showcasing Charlotte's history. The project is bringing together residents of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage.

This has been Charlotte Local Pulse. We'll see you tomorrow with more local updates.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI