Charlotte Approves $3.4M Transit Marketing Contract Following Second Train Stabbing
Charlotte City Council has recently approved a $3.4 million marketing contract aimed at enhancing the public’s perception of its public transportation system. This decision comes soon after a second stabbing incident on the light rail system within a span of four months, raising concerns about public safety.
Details of the Contract
The contract has been awarded to the Texas-based Sherry Matthews Group. Their responsibilities include advertising, branding, community engagement, and crisis communications for the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS).
Public Reaction
The timing of the contract’s approval has faced significant criticism. Critics argue that it fails to address pressing safety issues that have plagued the transit system recently. Brett Baldeck, a spokesperson for CATS, acknowledged that the situation appears problematic but emphasized that the marketing contract is unrelated to the recent stabbing incidents.
- Contract Amount: $3.4 million
- Marketing Firm: Sherry Matthews Group
- Key Responsibilities: Advertising, branding, community engagement, crisis communications
Recent Incidents
On December 5, 2025, a stabbing incident on the Blue Line resulted in injuries, reigniting debates about safety on public transportation. Earlier in the summer, another tragic incident resulted in the death of Iryna Zarutska, a Ukrainian refugee, which drew national attention and sparked calls for increased safety measures.
Political Criticism
The city council’s decision has also attracted political backlash. Congressman Ralph Norman criticized the vote, labeling it a “slap in the face” to both law enforcement and taxpayers. He expressed concerns that funds should rather be allocated to combat violent crime rather than to consultants.
The Mecklenburg County Republican Party echoed this sentiment, declaring that public safety issues in Charlotte are primarily a leadership failure rather than a messaging problem.
Future of the Contract
The contract with Sherry Matthews Group is set for one year, with the option for the city manager to extend it for up to three additional terms. With public safety concerns mounting, the effectiveness of this marketing effort remains to be seen.
