New opportunities for riders to have a voice, improvements to bus service, and preparations for a major transition were among the highlights of the November 4 Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA) meeting. Here’s what residents should know about the decisions shaping our region’s transit future.
Two new public advisory committees will begin representing transit riders in January 2027:
- Transit Riders Advisory Committee (TRAC): Will focus on riders’ experiences, concerns, and priorities.
- Mobility Access Committee (MAC): Will address accessibility and the needs of riders with disabilities and other mobility challenges.
The MPTA received 179 applications in September and has selected candidates for both committees. Appointments will be finalized and publicly announced by December, with committee work beginning in January 2027.
Although the initial application period has closed, residents can follow the committees’ work as meeting schedules and public participation procedures are announced.
Transit works best when the people who depend on it have a meaningful voice in decisions. We’ll be watching to ensure these committees provide meaningful opportunities for rider input.
Better Bus Service and New Fare Ambassadors
CATS reported encouraging improvements in bus operations. 99.9% of trips were scheduled, and ridership increased by 3% in the last month.
CATS launched its new fare ambassador program on October 30. The 60 ambassadors will assist passengers, check fares, and provide customer support.
Sixty transit ambassadors will educate passengers about fare payment and provide travel assistance. (Source: CATS)
Sustain Charlotte strongly supports CATS’ new Transit Ambassador Program because it helps make public transportation safer and easier to navigate for everyone. By providing a friendly presence on buses and at transit facilities, ambassadors can help riders understand fares, plan trips, navigate transfers, and access the services they need. This is especially valuable for first-time riders, older adults, people with disabilities, and residents who may be unfamiliar with the transit system.
Better Bus improvements and expanded microtransit services aim to make transit more convenient and reliable. MPTA trustees requested regular performance updates to determine whether these investments are delivering results for riders.
A Major Transit Transition Is Approaching
On January 1, 2027, the MPTA will assume responsibility for operating CATS. This step will fully transition CATS from City of Charlotte management to a regional transit authority.
Staff reported that preparations are largely on track, although dozens of agreements with the city still require approval.
For riders, the immediate goal is a seamless transition and uninterrupted service. Longer term, the MPTA will play a major role in determining how expanded transit funding improves bus service, rail connections, and transportation options throughout Mecklenburg County.
How You Can Get Involved
Public participation matters as the MPTA makes decisions that will shape transportation for decades. Residents can attend MPTA board and committee meetings, offer public comments during each meeting’s public comment period, and follow the development of the new rider advisory committees.
Visit RideMPTA.com for meeting schedules, agendas, and updates.
Sustain Charlotte will continue advocating for a transit system that is safe, reliable, accessible, and affordable for everyone in our region.
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