Safety & Security

Making CATS Safe for You

Safety and Security at CATS

The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) has made major investments in safety and security to ensure every customer feels safe and remains safe when using transit. We’ve increased officer presence, upgraded technologies and strengthened our safety systems through better training, fast incident responses, crisis intervention and fare enforcement so that protection is built into every part of our network.

See Something, Say Something - Here's How

Report Concerns in Real Time 

See Something, Say Something – right from your phone. 

The See-Say button in the CATS-Pass app lets you quickly and anonymously report safety concerns.

You can: 

  • Send a direct message to CATS security. 

  • Share your location. 

  • Add a photo if needed. 

Your reports give our security team the real-time information they need to respond faster and keep everyone safe.

Need Help Right Away? 

  • Use the See-Say button in the CATS-Pass app. 

  • Call CATS Customer Service: 704-336-7433

  • In an emergency, dial 911.

Fare Enforcement

Fare Enforcement Across the System 

Accountability is part of safety. Fare checks help keep the system fair and secure. 

  • Stronger zones. The fare zone at the Charlotte Transportation Center (CTC) has been expanded so the entire hub is covered. 

  • Systemwide checks. Customers can expect ongoing fare enforcement across buses and rail to promote fairness and accountability. 

  • New team. A dedicated Fare Inspection Team will launch in 2026 to conduct proof-of-payment checks and provide customer assistance.

Security Presence - More Security Personnel

Visible Security Presence

You’ll see more security across the system than ever before. 

  • More Officers, More Coverage. Our third-party partner, Professional Security Service, is now fully staffed along the Blue Line. Their efforts are further supported by over 1,000 hours of off-duty support with CMPD Officers

  • On the Move. Specialized patrols using bikes and urban terrain vehicles allow security personnel to cover more ground quickly and engage with riders along the Rail Trail in new ways.

  • Fare Blitzes. Ongoing systemwide fare checks promote accountability and visible enforcement.

Technology

Technology That Protects Riders

Safety is backed by advanced technology throughout the system. 

  • Cameras. Nearly 4,500 cameras are active across buses, trains and stations. A recent review of blind spots is guiding upgrades to further expand coverage. 

  • Smart responses. New video analytics will help identify fare evasion or banned riders, improving response times and enforcement accuracy. 

  • Real-time alerts. Riders can report issues directly to security through the CATS-Pass app report button. A representative will reach out as soon as possible.

Investment

Investing in Safety Long-Term 

CATS is making record investments to strengthen security across the system. 

  • Tripled budget. Since 2022, CATS has more than tripled its safety and security budget – from $5.8 million to $18.4 million in FY2025, with plans to reach $33.7 million in FY2026. 

  • Staff training. Nearly 600 employees have completed de-escalation training to better manage difficult situations. 

  • CATS Connect. This program, launched in 2024, partners with CMPD, nonprofits and Mecklenburg County to assist unhoused riders and those experiencing crises.

We are proud to partner with Professional Security Services (PSS). They are integral to our commitment to safety.

If you’re interested in contributing to the safety of our transit system and joining this vital workforce, we invite you to explore career opportunities with our partners. Please visit the link below to discover more about their organization and current job openings.

Join forces with us and become a part of the team that keeps Charlotte moving safely. We look forward to welcoming you to our family of security professionals!

PSS Careers

Resources

Security and Public Safety Plan(PDF, 320KB)

CATS Agency Safety Plan

Code of Conduct

Exclusion Policy(PDF, 208KB)

Learn about Rail Safety

Press Release

Safety Tips

Exiting a Rail Vehicle(PDF, 181KB)

Salir de un Vehículo Ferroviario

Here are some safety rail tips:

  • Trains are quieter and faster than they appear. Always stop, look both ways, and listen before crossing the tracks.
  • Distractions like phones or earbuds can prevent you from hearing an approaching train.
  • Use marked crosswalks and obey all warning signs and signals. Never take shortcuts across or between tracks, trespassing is illegal and dangerous.
  • When waiting on the platform, stay behind the white tactile safety strip until the train comes to a complete stop. Keep children and personal items safely beside you.
  • Trains can’t swerve, and it can take the length of a football field to stop. If the crossing gate is down or lights are flashing, stop and wait. It’s never worth the risk.
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