CHARLOTTE – UNC Charlotte calls itself North Carolina’s urban research university – and it will feel even more urban next spring when light rail connects center-city Charlotte with campus.

“We just think it’s going to be a tremendous opportunity for the city to get to know us – particularly coming out for athletic events like football, or cultural activities – and a great opportunity for our students to get into center city for internships, but also to enjoy the artistic and recreational amenities of the center city,” UNC Charlotte Chancellor Philip Dubois says in the accompanying video.

“We’ve got professional sports.  We’ve got first-rate cultural activities.  They can now get down there in 22 minutes, absolutely with a swipe of their student ID card.  Every student’s going to pay $50; they’re going to have unlimited light rail rides….

“So the students are going to be movin’ around this town.  And wake up, Charlotte – here they come!”