What is TDM?
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) is about using smarter travel options – not just more roads – to move people efficiently. It helps reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality and make commuting more flexible. TDM encourages alternatives to driving alone, like carpooling, vanpooling, biking, walking and taking public transit.
Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) supports TDM efforts across the Charlotte region to help people, organizations and communities move better together. How TDM Benefits the Charlotte Region Charlotte is growing, and CATS is committed to making sure the region’s transit needs are met. Whether you’re an employer looking to reduce costs, an employee who lives near the Blue Line or a community member who just wants to spend less time in traffic – Transportation Demand Management benefits you. Here’s how:
For Employers and Developers
- Boost employee satisfaction and retention
- Reduce parking and facility costs
- Support sustainability and corporate goals
For Employees and Residents
- Save money on gas, parking and maintenance
- Spend less time stuck in traffic
- Live healthier and more sustainably
For the Community
- Ease congestion and improve air quality
- Create safer, more connected neighborhoods
Partner with CATS
CATS partners with employers, developers and property managers to design flexible, customized mobility programs that fit your organization’s needs. We’ll help you plan, launch and promote your program with free resources and consultation from the CATS TDM team.
Partnership options include:
Vanpool and Carpool Programs
Help employees share the ride and save
Transit Incentives
Offer discounted or subsidized passes
Commuter Rewards and Challenges
Engage teams and celebrate progress
Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC) Program
What is the ETC Program?
The Employee Transportation Coordinator (ETC) program helps employers share transit options and commuter benefits with their staff. It’s a simple way to partner with CATS and support smarter, more sustainable travel.
How the Program Works
Each participating organization designates one employee to serve as the ETC. The ETC:
- Shares commuting information with staff
- Supports carpool, vanpool, transit and telework options
- Promotes commuting events and activities
- Serves as the main contact for CATS Business Partnerships
Benefits for Employers
- Lower parking and facility costs
- Reduced payroll taxes through commuter benefits
- Support for sustainability and clean air goals
- Improved employee satisfaction and retention
- Eligibility for recognition such as Best Workplace for Commuters
Benefits for Employees
- 10% discount on transit passes
- Pre-tax savings on transit and vanpool costs
- Lower commuting expenses
- More travel options and reduced stress
Transit Discounts
Employers in the ETC Program may offer a 10% discount on transit passes, pending a City of Charlotte credit check.
Note: Senior/ADA passes are already discounted and do not qualify for additional reductions.
How to Get Started
- Connect with Us: Schedule a free consultation with the CATS TDM team
- Build Your Plan: Identify the strategies and incentives that fit your goals
- Launch and Promote: Roll out your TDM program with our support tools
- Measure and Celebrate: Track progress and recognize your success
Explore Your Options
Learn more about the smart, sustainable ways to get around the Charlotte region:
Community Partners
CATS is proud to collaborate with organizations that are helping Charlotte move smarter.
Duke Energy, Bank of America, Roof Above, City of Charlotte, UNC, FBI, Salisbury VA, Charlotte VA, Tesla
CATS is building partnerships that make travel across the Charlotte region easier, cleaner and more connected. Whether you’re an employer, developer or commuter, Transit Demand Management offers practical and flexible ways to reduce cost, ease congestion and improve mobility for everyone.
Ready to be part of the change? Contact the CATS TDM team at 704-336-5018 or email Jessica.lanier@charlottenc.gov.