The NC-7 Corridor Master Plan establishes three categories of interventionaimed at improving the resiliency of the corridor’s economic, social, andenvironmental performance. The categories look to 1- create newconnections, 2- improve street safety, and 3- identify and prepareredevelopment plans. Metrocology assessed the corridor’s existingconditions, reviewed historical events, and studied the urban context of thesurrounding neighborhoods to identify and list key recommendations withineach Category to inform the Master Plan.

Taken comprehensively the three Categories weave a self-reinforcing visiondesigned to transform the existing Corridor into Gastonia’s “Other MainStreet”. The analysis found that to succeed, the Master Plan would have toshow how to reconnect the corridor back to the existing street network in ameaningful way, similar to how it was prior to the construction of theSouthern Norfolk rail lines, which was lowered below grade in a trenchphysically separating the most vital stretch of the Corridor from downtownGastonia. Improving walkability of existing streets through redevelopment ofadjoining properties and targeted infrastructure investments are illustratedthroughout the Master Plan at key locations that tie into the regionalgreenway/trail system.

Each of the three interventions are illustrated along the length of the three-mile corridor planning area. A detailed list of recommendations areidentified and mapped in support of the Plans goals.