Council members Graham, Mayo flip on I-77 toll lanes, clearing the way for $4 billion project

Charlotte City Council members Malcolm Graham and Joi Mayo flipped their votes Monday to support the state’s plans to add toll lanes to Interstate 77. Their votes ensured that the City Council backed the project in a 7-4 vote, meaning the 11-mile project is almost certain to be built.

In May, Graham and Mayo voted against the Department of Transportation’s plans to partner with a private developer to build the controversial $4 billion project. They were concerned about the impact on historically Black neighborhoods on Charlotte’s west side, as well as whether the toll lanes were the best way to relieve congestion.