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Vanpool Fare Increase Takes Effect October 1
The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is committed to providing safe and reliable transportation services, while offering various commuting options to our customers. CATS Vanpool Program has experienced substantial growth since its inception in the mid 1980's. In order to keep pace with cost increases, CATS proposed the second fare increase in 10 years. The last fare increase was in 2005.
A public meeting was held on Tuesday, June 2, 2009 at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center to provide information and receive comments on the proposed fare increase for the CATS Vanpool Program. On August 26, 2009 the Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC) approved a fifteen percent fare increase to take effect on October 1, 2009.
The fare structure is designed to cover increased operating costs including fuel, maintenance, mileage, and other administrative expenses. Insurance and staff time are supplementary costs covered in the fare structure.
MTC members also approved incorporating vanpool fares into the MTC Fare Policy. As with all other CATS services, vanpools fares will now be reviewed every two years, consistent with MTC policy. The MTC Fare Policy provides for modest fare increases more often, rather than large increases at longer intervals.
If you have questions or comments about the proposed CATS vanpool fare increase, please contact us by email at vanpools@ci.charlotte.nc.us or contact CATS Customer Service at 704-336-RIDE (7433).
Commute For Less
CATS has two vanpool programs, Vanpool and Minivan. Both programs are a convenient and affordable way to get to work. A vanpool or minivan consist of a group of people who live and work near each other and share similar commuting schedules. Each service tailors its schedule around the group's needs, with all members deciding on the pick-up and drop-off locations and times.
Vanpool Program
A vanpool consists of nine to 15 passengers with one rider agreeing to be the driver and at least one other rider agreeing to be the backup driver. CATS covers the cost of gas, maintenance, insurance and the Guaranteed Ride Home program.
Minivan Program
The minivan service consists of four to seven passengers with one rider agreeing to be the driver and at least one other rider agreeing to be the backup driver, but they can be started with three to four passengers. And just like the vanpool program, CATS covers the cost of gas, maintenance, insurance and the Guaranteed Ride Home program.
I Don't Want To Be Stranded
When life throws you an unexpected curve ball like a last minute deadline at work or a sick child, thanks to the Guaranteed Ride Home program you will never be stranded. Vanpool riders may use the Guaranteed Ride Home feature to take you to your car. Guaranteed Ride Home can be used once a month and up to a maximum of six times per year. Call 704-336-RIDE for more information.
