Citing delays, CATS will keep streetcar fare-free through 2022

It seems CATS can’t find enough people to keep its sleek new streetcars running on time. So for the rest of 2022, the CityLYNX Gold Line will operate fare-free.

CATS blamed the problem on a “nation-wide labor shortage.” 

“CATS staff is working diligently to hire and train additional rail operators,” the transit agency said in a statement this week.

How bad is it?According to WFAE, in the Gold Line’s first 100 days, more than half the streetcars were operating off schedule, with delays ranging from 10 minutes to 40 minutes.

WFAE also reported that ridership on the line was below CATS’ projections.

Help wanted: Anyone interested in driving a streetcar should call 704-336-7433 or apply online.

The bottom line: “As a City of Charlotte employee, CATS Rail Operators would receive first-class training and excellent benefits – all while serving the community,” the agency said in its statement.