Service Suspension for CATS Rail Systems in Charlotte This Weekend for Maintenance

Service Suspension Announcement for CATS Rail Systems This Weekend in Charlotte

If you’re planning to hop on the light rail in Charlotte this weekend, we’ve got some important news for you! The Charlotte Area Transit System, or CATS for short, will temporarily suspend service for its Blue Line and Gold Line rail systems starting early Saturday morning, October 19th. The closures will begin at 2 a.m. on Saturday and will last until 4 a.m. on Monday, October 21st.

Why the Closure?

Don’t worry! This temporary pause is all about keeping things running smoothly. According to CATS officials, this closure is necessary for some essential preventative maintenance. Just like any other public transit system, the CATS rail lines need regular upkeep to ensure passengers enjoy safe and reliable rides.

What Should You Do?

While the Blue Line and Gold Line undergo this maintenance work, CATS has got your back! They will still provide bus bridges to help you get around. It’ll be like taking a bus to the train, so if you’re on a rail route that’s down, just hop on one of the special buses that will take you to and from the usual rail stops. This way, you won’t be left in the lurch! If you’re curious about the bus bridge stops, you can find the complete list on the CATS website.

Resuming Service

Mark your calendars because normal service is expected to resume bright and early on Monday! CATS plans to have both the Blue Line and Gold Line back up and running by 5 a.m.. So if you’re a morning commuter, you should be all set to ride again!

Getting Around Charlotte

For those who are not familiar, the LYNX Blue Line covers a pretty important stretch in Charlotte. It travels from southwest Charlotte all the way up to the University of North Carolina’s Charlotte campus. The Gold Line streetcar service is equally vital as it runs through Uptown, connecting people from east to west. So whether you’re a student, a worker, or just a visitor, you can rely on these transit options to navigate the city.

Buying Tickets

When it comes to tickets, you have a couple of easy options! You can purchase your light rail tickets at those handy vending machines that are set up at all LYNX Blue Line stations and stops. Alternatively, if you prefer a more modern approach, you can also buy tickets through the CATS-Pass app right from your phone. A one-way ticket will set you back $2.20, and it’s valid for 90 minutes after it’s activated. Just keep in mind that Blue Line riders need to have a valid ticket or pass on hand, as random checks are conducted by fare inspectors and police officers to ensure compliance.

Stay Informed!

We know that transit schedules can sometimes be a hassle to keep track of, so it’s a good idea to stay informed about any changes. Remember, riding without a valid ticket or pass could lead to a $50 citation and potential legal issues, so it’s best to be prepared!

So to everyone in Charlotte planning to use the CATS rail this weekend, please keep this maintenance schedule in mind. Safe travels when the trains are back up and running on Monday!