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

FARE ENFORCEMENT ZONES TAKE EFFECT ON LIGHT RAIL PLATFORMS

Charlotte, N.C., January 9, 2009 - The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) wants you to know about a new city ordinance that just took effect along the LYNX Blue Line.  Transit fare zones are now in place on the light rail platforms. 

Fare zones are the area on the platforms in between the ticket vending machines.  All persons present in a designated fare zone must have and show proof of fare payment when requested to do so.  Additionally, persons present within a designated fare zone must be there for the purpose of riding public transportation.  People who fail to show proof of fare in a designated fare zone could be fined a $50.00 civil penalty.  
 
“Establishing these zones will assist with the safe and orderly management of crowds, the use of rail platforms for efficient loading and unloading of the light rail vehicles and fare evasion,” said Jim Dougherty, General Manager of Safety and Security for CATS.   “During the first year of service on the LYNX, we had customers travel to more than 130 events.  Fare zones will be particularly useful during special events such as the Panthers playoff game this weekend.”
 
The fare zones will be clearly marked and CATS will designate where and when the fare zones are needed on the LYNX Blue Line. 

The Stonewall, Third Street and I-485/South Boulevard Stations will be the first platforms to be designated transit fare zones.  Both the tape and the signs are temporary and will be replaced in the near future with more permanent means of identification
 
Fare zones may be established at other stations and platforms in the future, and will be clearly marked in the same manner.  To learn more about CATS and its services, call 704-336-RIDE (7433) or visit us on the web at www.ridetransit.org.