CATS Implements New Security Measures to Strengthen Public Safety

Published on October 03, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oct. 3, 2025

Contact: 980.722.0311.
CATSPR@charlottenc.gov

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, city leadership announced new security measures designed to enhance safety throughout the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), focusing on increased accessibility for CATS contracted security officers by using new security tools.

Through expanded staff safety training, Professional Security Services (PSS) officers will utilize bike and utility terrain vehicle (UTV) patrols along the Blue Line. “Safety is the foundation of everything we do as a city,” Mayor Vi Lyles said. “By working together across departments and with our community, we are committed to implementing these new measures to ensure Charlotte remains a safe and thriving place for all.”

This is a significant step to bolster security as CATS continues to increase security in high-traffic areas and on transit vehicles. PSS officers will continue to coordinate with CMPD and other city departments to ensure the safety of all passengers and employees. “The addition of bike and UTV patrols is a critical step in our mission to increase safety and reliability in our transit system,” CATS Interim CEO Brent Cagle said. “We believe these patrols will not only increase visibility, but also foster a greater sense of security for our riders.”

The use of UTVs and bike patrols expands coverage, enhances fare evasion checks, improves response times in emergencies and increases visible security presence systemwide. Over the last month, PSS officers completed specialized training in preparation for the rollout.

Transit customers can continue to support safety efforts through the “See Something, Say Something” initiative. Security officers are available at any time. Riders can also use the blue light emergency call buttons along the Blue Line.

The CATS-Pass app provides a direct connection to the safety and security team. To do so, tap the “Report a Problem to CATS” button on the main screen.

For more information about CATS' safety initiatives, visit the CATS Safety and Security page by clicking this link: About CATS Safety & Security

Photos from the event will be available via the CATS Safety Press Conference photo album. Access the photos by clicking this link: View the photo album. Please credit David Flower, City of Charlotte.

About the Charlotte Area Transit System

Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is a department of the City of Charlotte and governed by the Metropolitan Transit Commission (MTC). CATS is the largest transit system between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta, offering bus, light rail, streetcar, vanpool, microtransit and paratransit services.

Learn more by visiting RideTransit.org or follow CATS on X, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.