CATS Celebrates Fifth Anniversary of Gold Line Service

Published on August 31, 2026

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Aug. 31, 2026

Contact: 980-722-0311

CATSPR@charlottenc.gov

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is celebrating the fifth anniversary of the Gold Line streetcar and looks forward to continued investment in the system.

The Gold Line opened for passenger service on Aug. 30, 2021. The route serves 17 stations along four miles of track between French Street Station in the Historic West End and Sunnyside Station near Plaza Midwood. Since its opening, the Gold Line has carried more than 2.8 million passengers, with top stops including CTC Arena, Tryon Street, Johnson & Wales, CPCC and Sunnyside.

The Gold Line introduced a first of its kind hybrid Siemens S700 streetcar. The vehicles can run on overhead wire, but can also utilize an onboard battery system that allows wire free operation through Uptown, preserving the Tryon Street parade route and enabling safe passage under low clearance bridges along the alignment.

As a result of the Mecklenburg County voter-approved sales tax referendum in November 2025, and as part of the 2055 Transit System Plan, an extension that will add approximately six miles of track and up to 17 stations is planned for the future. The proposed extension will create new connections to the Eastland Community Transit Center and the Rosa Parks Community Transit Center. The Gold Line will also provide a critical link between the proposed Charlotte Gateway Station and other transit corridors.

“The Gold Line serves some of Charlotte’s most historic and vibrant neighborhoods, and its success reflects the value of investing in communities,” said Brent Cagle, Interim CEO of CATS. “As we look ahead, we remain focused on building a system that supports every rider, every day.”

As the Gold Line advances into its next chapter, the system will continue to play a vital role in connecting communities, supporting local businesses and providing reliable, accessible transit for residents and visitors.

Use the CATS-Pass app for live vehicle tracking and trip planning. For questions or concerns, riders can speak directly to a customer service representative at 704-366-7433.

The City of Charlotte does not discriminate on the basis of disability. To request a reasonable accommodation or translation (free of charge), please email telltransit@charlottenc.gov or call 704-336-7433. Call Center open Monday through Friday 5:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 7 - 11:30 a.m. & 12:30 - 4 p.m.