CATS 2024 Operating Budget
On March 19, 2024, Brent Cagle, interim CEO of the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), addressed the Mecklenburg County commissioners regarding the ongoing expansion efforts of multiple transit lines, notably the Red Line and Silver Line.
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CATS operates with a budget of $235 million and only a small fraction, approximately 7%, comes from passenger fares. The revenue generated directly from riders paying for tickets or passes contributes minimally to the overall budget. The primary source of funding for CATS, making up the majority of its budget at 61%, is derived from a half-cent sales tax.
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During the presentation, details were provided about the proposed Silver Line extension, which would cover a span of 29 miles from south of Matthews, through uptown, and further west beyond Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Cagle emphasized the importance of frequency and reliability in boosting ridership, while also mentioning the potential for a sales tax increase to fund these initiatives.
Acknowledging the financial challenges faced by CATS amidst the pandemic's impact on ridership levels, Cagle hinted at the possibility of fare adjustments for buses and light rails. He highlighted the need for pricing reviews in the coming year to simplify ticket purchases and ensure equitable access for riders. Cagle stressed the significance of keeping the needs of low-income riders in mind, as a substantial portion of CATS users rely on the system out of necessity rather than choice.
See the full presentation: HERE