Matthews Development News
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Board of Commissioners Meeting - June 22, 2026
Published: Jun 22, 2026
Matthews Debates Ebike and E-moped Regulations Amidst Safety and Education Concerns
The board considered an ordinance regulating ebikes and e-mopeds, which mirrors much of the ordinance adopted by the town of Davidson. The proposed ordinance defines ebikes (under 750 watts, with pedals, max 20 mph), mopeds (under 30 mph, pedals optional, electric or gas), and motorcycles (over 30 mph). It outlines where these vehicles can be operated: roads and greenways for ebikes, and roads only for modified ebikes, mopeds, and motorcycles, with specific restrictions on sidewalks, shared use paths, and greenways for the latter. Enforcement includes potential impoundment and fines, starting with a warning. Significant discussion focused on the need for public education regarding the differences between ebikes and more powerful e-mopeds/motorcycles, the dangers associated with misuse (speeding, lack of training), and concerns about injuries to riders and pedestrians. Commissioners debated the strictness of the proposed rules, the balance between enforcement and education, age restrictions, and potential modifications before adoption.
Riverbanks Greenway Connector Project Approved, Enhancing Access and Safety
The board approved a contract for the Riverbanks Greenway Connector project, a bond-funded initiative designed to connect the Country Place neighborhood residents to downtown, Squirrel Lake Park, and eventually the Sportsplex via an off-street path. The project involves constructing a 5-6 foot wide sidewalk, a pedestrian bridge, and sewer line protection measures. The low bid from ECL Siteworks LLC was accepted, coming in under budget at $1,195,000 with a 10% contingency. The project is expected to take approximately three to four months to complete. The connector is seen as crucial for safety, providing children with a secure way to access the greenway system and preventing them from creating unsafe crossings.
Matthews Approves Road Maintenance Transfer, Addressing Safety Concerns at Trade and Fullwood Intersection
The board discussed a proposal to transfer maintenance responsibilities for sections of South Trade Street and Fullwood Lane. Fullwood Lane would be transferred to the DOT, and in exchange, the town would take over maintenance of South Trade Street from John Street to Fullwood Lane. This transfer is expected to be a net positive financially, despite a slight annual decrease in PAL bill funding, as the town would gain more control over a street in the heart of downtown, enabling improvements and transit flexibility. Concerns were raised about safety at the intersection of Trade Street and Fullwood Lane, particularly for pedestrians and vehicles exiting Hampton Green, with residents describing dangerous conditions and near misses. Staff acknowledged these issues, noting that previous attempts to improve safety had limited success, and the current intersection design presents challenges.
Matthews Alive Festival Gears Up with New Attractions, Board Members, and Sponsorship Opportunities
Leanne, likely referring to Leanne West, provided an update on the upcoming Matthews Alive festival, highlighting available spaces for commercial exhibitors and vendors, and openings in the parade. She thanked new board members Steve Thompson and Debbie Dantis, and acknowledged Megan Denino who will join in 2027. The board is addressing challenges such as rising costs and potential impacts from upcoming changes to Stumptown Park. Festival highlights include PNC Bank's interactive display, a new carnival company (R&D Amusements), and a music lineup featuring Electric Avenue, American Ride (Toby Keith tribute), and The Purple Experience (Prince tribute). The main stage sponsorship is still available. An audit report was mentioned, with auditor Kendra Gangle available for questions.
Matthews Considers Expanding Downtown Camera System for Enhanced Public Safety
The board discussed a proposal to expand the downtown camera system by adding 25 cameras across various locations, including East Matthew Street, McDow Street, and Stumptown Park. This expansion aims to enhance public safety, deter crime, improve investigations, and support traffic safety. The system would incorporate artificial intelligence features for functions like crowd counting and tracking individuals flagged by law enforcement. Concerns regarding privacy, data retention, and potential misuse were addressed, with assurances that cameras would monitor public areas, footage would be purged after a set period unless flagged for a case, and facial recognition would only be used for individuals actively sought by law enforcement. The estimated cost is $130,000 for the initial purchase and 10 years of coverage, with an ongoing annual cost of approximately $10,344.80 for pole rental and data services.
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The Matthews News archive
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Board of Commissioners Meeting - March 23, 2026
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