CATS Better Bus – Year One Service Changes

Summary

CATS Better Bus – Year One is the first coordinated package of bus-service improvements under CATS' five-year Better Bus plan. The FY2027 implementation adds more than 30,500 annual bus-service hours, increases frequency on selected routes, expands microtransit, and improves approximately 100 bus stops across the Charlotte-Mecklenburg service area.

Current stage: Funded or programmed.

Current condition: Active.

Key Facts

Project Funding

Funding type: Public · Status: Allocated

Timeline

1. 2026-09-21

   October service-change details announced

   CATS announced that the October 5 service change would implement the first Better Bus improvements, including higher frequency on routes 5, 6 and 9, additional express trips, a new North Mecklenburg connector, and a new West Charlotte microtransit zone.

2. 2026-06-11

   FY2027 budget funds Year One service changes

   Charlotte and MPTA adopted the FY2027 CATS budget, including more than 30,500 additional annual bus-service hours, 15-minute weekday service on routes 5, 7, 16 and 21, expanded microtransit, and improvements to approximately 100 bus stops.

   Stage after event: Funded or programmed
3. 2025-03-19

   Better Bus system plan defines first implementation framework

   CATS planning materials presented the Better Bus system plan as a near-term network framework to improve frequency, expand microtransit, and connect riders through more coordinated bus service.

   Stage after event: Planning or feasibility

Geography

Map