Understanding the Rail Shutdown

Published on June 08, 2024

by Brandon T Hunter
Communications Division

A Necessary Step for a Better Transit Experience

As part of our ongoing commitment to provide safe and efficient transit services, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) has been diligently preparing for this weekend’s rail shutdown. We understand that this may be an inconvenience for our riders, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we undertake this important maintenance work.

Rail shutdowns are a common practice within the transit industry and are essential for maintaining the quality and safety of our rail alignments. During this period, various departments within CATS, including Rail, Planning and Bus divisions, collaborate to ensure a smooth transition to bus services. This collaboration ensures that a bus bridge is in place, allowing continued service along the rail alignments with minimal disruption. 

To assist our riders during the shutdown, each rail station has information boards indicating the location of bus bridge stops. Additionally, the nearest bus stop to each station will be marked with a LYNX Connector sign. The buses will also display the rail alignment and "Bus Bridge" to help you identify the correct service.

The rail shutdown provides a vital window for extensive maintenance and upgrades that are challenging to perform during regular operations. Some of the critical tasks include signal replacement, shelter replacement and camera maintenance, all aimed at enhancing the safety and comfort of our transit system. This period also allows for essential training updates for our rail employees.

Our Facilities Division will be active during this period, undertaking significant projects such as light replacements through the Charlotte Transportation Center, sidewalk restoration at the Blue Line Arrowood Station and pressure washing to maintain cleanliness throughout the alignment.

Our goal is to keep our riders well-informed throughout this process. For the most up-to-date information, please use the CATS-Pass app, which offers features such as real-time vehicle tracking, fare purchases, security reporting and more. 

We recognize that this rail shutdown may not be the most convenient for our riders, but it is a necessary step to ensure the long-term reliability and safety of our transit system. We have carefully selected this time to minimize impact while completing essential maintenance tasks.

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to improve your transit experience. We are excited about the enhancements taking place and are committed to providing you with the best possible service.

Stay safe, and we look forward to welcoming you back to an improved rail system!

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