CATS Full-Scale Security Exercise Scheduled for June 7

Published on May 27, 2026

TRAINING ALERT

Expect increased emergency vehicle presence, noise, bus bay detours at the CTC.


The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) and Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), along with local, state and other federal partners, will conduct a Full-Scale Exercise at the Charlotte Transportation Center (CTC) during the overnight hours of Saturday, June 6, into Sunday, June 7. This exercise is a vital component of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding the transit system and our community and preparing for emergencies with our first responder partners.

What to Expect in the Uptown Area:

  • Road Closures: Some roads surrounding the CTC will be closed. At approximately 8 p.m. on June 6, S. Brevard Street will be shut down. Beginning at 12:30 a.m. on June 7, E. Trade Street, E. 4th Street at Brevard and E. Trade Street at the Blue Line Bridge will close.

  • Emergency Presence: There will be a significant increase in emergency vehicles and first responders.

  • Controlled Simulations: Neighbors and passersby may hear simulated sounds of gunfire or loud noises and see artificial smoke at approximately 1:30 a.m. on June 7.

  • Simulated Activity: Large groups of actors portraying pedestrians and victims will be moving through the area.

What to Expect as a Transit Customer:

  • Service Detours: Expect bus route and bus bay detours. Please follow directional signage.

  • Restricted Access: Clear signage will be posted throughout the CTC indicating areas that are off-limits to the public.

  • No Impact To Sunday Service: The exercise should be completed by 4:30 am. Sunday revenue service should not be impacted and is expected to begin at its normal time.

IMPORTANT: While the scenarios will appear realistic, this is a strictly controlled training exercise TSA and CATS will conduct. To keep emergency lines clear for actual needs, please refrain from calling 911 to report security concerns or noises at the CTC during this time


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 704-366-7433.

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