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West Charlotte joins CATS on-demand service, with rides starting at $2.20
CATS has expanded its on-demand Microtransit service to west Charlotte along Wilkinson Boulevard, offering rides to destinations such as the airport, a VA clinic and a farmers market. The launch is part of a planned expansion funded by a sales tax increase, with 17 more service areas expected over five years.
Charlotte Area Transit System’s on-demand Microtransit service is now operating in west Charlotte along Wilkinson Boulevard, giving riders access to trips for $2.20 each, with reduced fares for seniors.
The service, launched Oct. 17, connects people with destinations including Charlotte Douglas International Airport, a Walmart, a VA clinic and a farmers market. CATS says its target is to keep waits to 30 minutes or less.
West Charlotte is the second of 19 areas slated to receive CATS Micro over the next five years. The service also operates in north Mecklenburg County. The expansion is funded by a sales tax increase approved last year.
Marvin Sharpe, general manager of MV Transportation, the company contracted to operate the service, said it is intended to address gaps in transportation access. He described the goal as serving people who have been cut off from reliable options for getting to work, medical appointments and family.
CATS interim CEO Brent Cagle said the next planned expansion will reach the north end of Beatties Ford Road in February.
The transit agency is also preparing to start a Fare Inspection Ambassador Program on the Blue Line later this month. Up to 60 employees will be assigned to check fares and help passengers with questions, Cagle said. The program is expected to expand to CATS buses later.