Charlotte transit agency hikes fares

Earlier this week, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) implemented a 25 percent fare increase for local routes and a 14.2 percent hike for all other fares.

Local bus routes and train fares will increase from $1.75 to $2 per ride, officials at the North Carolina transit agency said in a prepared statement.

“The fare increase was needed for CATS to maintain the core transit services currently provided to our customers,” said CATS Chief Executive Officer Carolyn Flowers. “CATS’ fares continue to compare favorably to other transit systems.”

Also this week, the agency added an additional outbound trip on the LYNX Blue Line at 1:30 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays in response to rider requests for expanded weekend light-rail service.

“The additional trip will allow the LYNX schedule to better align with the bus service providing another alternative for passengers heading to and from Uptown for events, dining and other activities,” said Rocky Paiano, general manager of rail operations.