In this episode of Inside Matthews, host Jim Taylor sits down with current mayor John Higdon, the town’s 19th mayor, to reflect on Matthews’ progress, challenges, and future. The conversation explores how the town has transformed from a quiet, small community to a vibrant destination full of energy, events, and pride. Mayor Higdon highlights Matthews’ growing downtown, the award-winning farmers market, and the role of festivals and cultural events in keeping the community lively.

At the same time, the discussion addresses pressing challenges: managing traffic from heavy pass-through commuters, balancing growth with the preservation of Matthews’ character, and ensuring the town stays innovative as nearby municipalities adopt similar revitalization strategies. Higdon explains current efforts with NCDOT projects, downtown planning, and the need to safeguard Matthews’ tree canopy and green spaces, while also fostering new economic opportunities.

Key projects shaping the future include the Hendrick Advanced Manufacturing Campus, expected to bring thousands of high-paying jobs; the redevelopment of Purser-Hulsey Park into a major community space; and the creation of a new Discovery Place Kids museum downtown. Higdon also speaks candidly about the uncertainty around regional transit plans, including the stalled Silver Line light rail project, and the importance of planning ahead for future growth.

Listeners also get a glimpse of Matthews’ political culture, from collaborative traditions among elected officials to lessons learned in balancing progress with preservation. Higdon shares his hopes for being remembered as a “tree-save” mayor who expanded parks and trails while steering Matthews through a time of growth and change.

This episode offers both hometown stories and forward-looking insights, perfect for anyone invested in the past, present, and future of Matthews.