Charlotte is at a crossroads. The proposed 1-cent transit sales tax referendum could shape how our city grows, how we move, and what kind of future we build together. But what’s really in the plan — and what happens if we do nothing?

In this episode of Shaping Charlotte, Clayton Sealey and Tesho Akindele sit down with two leaders who know the answers: Brent Cagle, interim CEO of CATS, and Ned Curran, longtime civic leader and former chairman of the N.C. Department of Transportation.

Together, they break down the PAVES Act, explain the city’s transit vision, and make the case for why inaction might be the costliest choice of all.

Whether you’re a daily transit rider, a driver stuck in traffic, or simply someone who cares about Charlotte’s growth and economy, this conversation is about what comes next — and why standing still isn’t an option.

Sponsored by the Charlotte Alliance Foundation.

Welcome to the first episode of Shaping Charlotte!

Co-hosts Clayton Sealey and Tesho Akindele kick things off

From personal stories to big-picture hopes for where the Queen City is headed, this episode sets the stage for the season ahead.