CATS to expand fare payment options and discounts

Transit riders deserve a system that is simple, affordable, and designed around the realities of everyday life. We’re encouraged by the proposed CATS Fare Modernization Program, which would make major improvements to how riders pay for transit, expand access to discounted fares, and make trips faster and more convenient.

At a time when Mecklenburg County is discussing the future of mobility investments, modernizing the fare system is an important step toward creating a transit network that works better for everyone.

The Metropolitan Transit Commission plans to adopt the new Fare Policy at their May 27 meeting. Watch the public hearing presentation here to learn more about what has been proposed.

More affordable fares for more riders

One of the most important parts of the proposal is the expansion of discounted fare eligibility. Reduced fares would no longer be limited primarily to seniors, youth, and riders with disabilities. CATS is proposing to expand discounted fares to include income-eligible residents, veterans, and active-duty military members. Riders participating in programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, free and reduced lunch programs, housing assistance, and energy assistance programs could qualify for lower fares.

This matters because transportation affordability is a major challenge for many households. For families already struggling with housing, food, and healthcare costs, transportation can become another barrier to opportunity. Expanding discounted fares helps more residents reach jobs, schools, healthcare, and essential services while reducing the financial burden of getting around.

Fare capping: Pay as you go with no penalty

The proposal also includes fare capping, a policy Sustain Charlotte strongly supports because it makes transit more equitable and predictable for riders. Fare capping means riders automatically stop paying once they reach the cost of a daily, weekly, or monthly pass. Instead of needing to pay upfront for a monthly pass, riders can pay as they go and still receive the same savings.

For many lower-income riders, this is a game changer. Too often, riders who cannot afford to buy a monthly pass upfront end up paying more over time by purchasing single rides. Fare capping fixes that inequity by ensuring every rider gets the best possible fare automatically. Research on CATS’ existing fare capping pilot found that the policy particularly benefited minority and low-income riders, who were more likely to rely on single-ride fares.

Faster boarding = faster travel

The modernization program would also improve travel times and system efficiency through expanded payment options. Riders would be able to pay using contactless credit and debit cards, mobile wallets, smart watches, the CATS Pass app, or reloadable smart cards.

That may sound like a small change, but faster boarding makes a real difference. When riders can simply tap and go instead of fumbling for cash or paper tickets, buses spend less time stopped at stations and more time moving. Faster boarding improves reliability across the system and creates a smoother experience for riders and operators alike. Electronic validators and simplified fare structures would also reduce confusion and make transfers easier across buses, rail, and streetcar service.

Importantly, CATS would continue accepting cash payments, while also expanding retail locations where riders can load fare value onto smart cards. This gives riders more flexibility while helping transition the system toward faster and more efficient electronic payments.

Our take

Sustain Charlotte believes better transit is essential to building a more connected, affordable, and sustainable region. Modernizing fare payment alone will not solve all of Charlotte’s transportation challenges, but it is a meaningful improvement that can make transit easier to use, more equitable, and more attractive to current and future riders.