Union County

Formed in 1842 from Anson and Mecklenburg Counties, Union County is a clear representative of the suburban growth in the counties directly neighboring the city of Charlotte. The western part of the county — adjacent to Mecklenburg County — is largely made up of suburban communities, but the landscape becomes more rural as you travel east from the outskirts of Waxhaw towards the county seat of Monroe. Still, the population is fast-growing, with approximately 270,000 residents calling the county home. Apart from Monroe and Waxhaw, some notable towns include Indian Trail, Weddington, Marvin, Stallings and Wingate — home to Wingate University.

Union County has access to major transportation corridors like Interstate 74, NC Highway 16 and Interstate 485, all important for its many commuters to reach Charlotte. Despite growth in its western part — largely due to spillover from southeast Mecklenburg County that flourished due to lower property taxes in its western neighbor — Union County still has agricultural roots and rolling fields as far as the eye can see. Some of its goods include soybeans, grains, cotton, eggs, dairy products, poultry and hogs.

Residents of Union County enjoy visiting Cane Creek Park, with a lake and opportunities for fishing, boating, camping and trails. Additional recreational destinations include Jesse Helms Park in Wingate and the Union County Heritage Trail. Downtown Monroe and Downtown Waxhaw provide visitors with a blast from the past with many historical buildings and landmarks being intact in both town centers.

Union County faces challenges managing its growing population. Its status as the home for many commuters creates traffic on key corridors during rush hour, but road capacity hasn’t always kept pace with population growth.

The ultimate goal of county planners is to preserve historical character while embracing growth through improving transportation, water, education and public safety. Decision-makers hope to see a future where strong ties are developed and maintained between arts, agritourism and recreation and where compatible development along key corridors is fostered.

Photos by Nancy Pierce

Union County links