http://66.225.205.104/GC20080829.mp3
A proposal for Lake Norman-area towns to join forces for a north computer rail line and I-77 improvements has hit a snag. A task force appointed by mayors from Huntersville, Cornelius, Davidson and Mooresville recommended in April that the towns form a new regional transportation organization. But earlier this month, Huntersville commissioners voted 5 to zero to drop out of negotiations to form the group. Huntersville Mayor Jill Swain says she favors a regional approach. But she says the town board doesn't want to be hamstrung by a legal agreement. Now the mayors are looking for other ways to collaborate on transportation issues. Davidson Mayor John Woods says the towns must work together to gain leverage as transportation officials in Charlotte, Raleigh and Washington make funding decisions. He says a unified voice is essential to win funding for Interstate 77 widening and the North Commuter Rail Line. The line is estimated to cost $261 million.