Lake Norman to Uptown and back: Suicide?

I used to ride home from uptown to Davidson once a week. Usually I'd take Graham St to Hwy 21, then hang a right on 115 at Sunset. I set out around 4:30 pm, and traffic was never a big issue. Beatties Ford to Mt. Holly/Huntersville Rd to either 21 or 115 is also pleasant, but longer. Alternatively, you could take the 7 bus to 21 & 115, and ride from there, or the 77x and hop off wherever it suits your fancy. On the way in, I'd usually ride along the 77x route for a while, then hop on the bus.
A "safe route" is what you make of it. Use your head, a mirror, and good lights, and you can make it work.