IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:  Jean Leier (704) 432-0496

LYNX BLUE LINE TICKET CHECKING BLITZ BEGINS FEBRUARY 4
Charlotte, N.C., January 28, 2008 - Starting February 4th, riders of the LYNX Blue Line will see an increased frequency of ticket checking by Fare Inspectors, Police and other Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) personnel.   Customers found without a pass or an expired pass will receive a $50 civil citation and be escorted off at the next station.  If a customer indicates that the Ticket Vending Machine (TVM) is not working, the Fare Inspectors and Police will be able to confirm when TVMs are not operational. 

"CATS let the public know that there would be an educational grace period during the initial start of revenue service," said Jim Zingale, CATS Chief Operating Officer.  "We wanted customers to familiarize themselves with the LYNX Blue Line.  During this period, those without tickets have been escorted off the train at the next stop to purchase a fare." Zingale said now that passengers have had time to learn how to ride rapid transit, the grace period is ending.
 
Each LYNX Station has at least two TVMs, typically one on each platform. If a TVM is not working, customers are instructed to use the other TVM to purchase a ticket regardless of which direction they are heading. To ensure you arrive at your destination on time please arrive at a LYNX station early enough to purchase a ticket.

In addition to the one-way tickets sold at TVMs, customers can purchase 7 day passes at TVMs. Weekly and monthly passes are available at many convenient locations including the Charlotte Transportation Center, Harris Teeter and Food Lion Grocery Stores and many employers in the Uptown area.

Ten Ride Passes are not valid on the LYNX Blue Line.

To learn more about CATS and its services, call 704-336-RIDE or visit us on the web at www.ridetransit.org.