Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is sharing important information to help the community understand the steps that will be taken in the event there is a strike by SMART Union bus operators.
CATS bus drivers voted to authorize a potential strike earlier this month. However, a CATS spokesperson said they are not aware of any actual plans for drivers to go on strike at this time.
North Carolina state law prevents CATS and the City of Charlotte from engaging in the agreements between SMART Union and RATP Dev, the company that manages bus drivers.
CATS issued a statement which reads, in part: “CATS wants the community to know that RATP Dev and SMART Union are continuing to negotiate the terms of their agreement in good faith. CATS remains supportive without participating in the process. CATS will continue to release information to the community as it is available.”
CATS does not expect to have forewarning from RATP Dev of the number of bus operators that report to work until the time of their shifts. As a result, it is likely that bus service will be significantly impacted with very little notice. CATS will communicate real-time service changes based on staffing levels.
Rail and Para-Transit services are not expected to be affected by a SMART Union strike because they are city employees.
In the event of a bus operator strike, CATS Public and Community Relations Division will use these channels for communication:
- CATS Website – RideTransit.org
- CATS Social Media Accounts – Facebook, Instagram, Twitter
- CATS-Pass Mobile App – Download here
- Rider’s Alerts – Subscribe here
- Notice Posted at CTC Pass Sales Window
- Media Press Release
CATS has also outlined specific route contingency plans in the event a bus operator strike takes place. Route selection for reduced workforce scenarios will be prioritized based on ridership, service to essential destinations (i.e. health care facilities) and staffing levels. If there is a workforce shortage, all express routes will be suspended until further notice.
CATS tweeted last week: “Our mission is to continue to provide essential mobility solutions that connect communities to opportunity, places and each other.”
