Getting around Charlotte is easier than ever for UNC Charlotte students, faculty, and staff thanks to the CATS All-Access Pass. This pass provides unlimited access to the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), which includes buses, streetcars, the airport sprinter, and the LYNX light rail. If you’re affiliated with UNC Charlotte, you have convenient and cost-effective transportation options right at your fingertips.
LYNX Light Rail in Charlotte, a transportation option for UNC Charlotte students, faculty, and staff using the CATS All-Access Pass.
Understanding the CATS All-Access Pass for UNC Charlotte
The CATS All-Access Pass is a fantastic benefit offered to the UNC Charlotte community, simplifying your commute and exploration of Charlotte. For students, the pass is automatically included, making it an integral part of your university experience. Faculty and staff can also take advantage of this perk at a reduced rate. This initiative encourages the use of public transportation, contributing to a more sustainable and accessible campus environment.
This pass opens up the entire CATS network to you. Imagine easily hopping on the LYNX light rail to reach different parts of the city, commuting to campus on a CATS bus, or even using the streetcar to explore Uptown Charlotte. The All-Access Pass truly provides freedom and flexibility in your daily travels around Charlotte.
Activating Your CATS-Pass: A Simple Guide
Activating your CATS All-Access Pass is a straightforward digital process through the CATS-Pass app. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you riding in no time:
- Download the CATS-Pass app: Your first step is to download the free CATS-Pass app, available on both iOS and Android platforms. You can find it by searching “CATS-Pass” in your app store or by using this direct link: CATS-Pass App.
- Create Your Account: Open the app and create your account using your official [email protected] email address. This email address is crucial as it verifies your affiliation with UNC Charlotte and links your pass to your account.
- Locate Your All-Access Pass: Once logged in, your All-Access Pass should automatically appear on the app’s home screen. If you don’t see it immediately, navigate to the “Wallet” section, usually found in the menu at the bottom of the screen. From the “Current” pass list, select “All-Access Pass.”
- You’re Ready to Ride: With your active pass visible in the app, you are set to use CATS transportation. When boarding a CATS bus, simply tap your “Active” pass and scan the QR code. For the LYNX light rail, be prepared to show your active pass to a fare inspector when requested.
Remember, always have your active pass ready when using CATS services. On the LYNX light rail, failing to present an active pass to a fare inspector can result in a $50 citation, so it’s important to have it accessible.
Eligibility for the CATS All-Access Pass
The CATS All-Access Pass program is designed primarily for current UNC Charlotte students, faculty, and staff. Here’s a breakdown of eligibility for different groups within the university community:
- Students: Most enrolled UNC Charlotte students automatically receive the CATS All-Access transit pass as it is included in the Miscellaneous Transportation Service Charge (MTSC). This applies to the majority of students, excluding those specifically exempt from paying the MTSC. Students unsure about their MTSC status can verify it on their tuition and fees statement via Banner Self-Service. For students who do not pay the MTSC, a semester pass is available for $25, purchasable through MyPark or at the PaTS office. Examples of students who may not pay MTSC include distance learning students or those in co-op programs.
- Permanent Faculty and Staff: Permanent faculty and staff members are eligible to purchase CATS All-Access passes at reduced rates. Annual passes are available for $75, and semester passes are $50. Purchases can be made via payroll deduction or credit card through your MyPark account. Payroll deductions are pre-tax, offering additional savings.
- Temporary Employees: Temporary employees also have access to the reduced-rate pass program. Annual passes cost $75, and semester passes are $50. Purchase options include credit card payments through MyPark or payroll deduction by visiting the PaTS office. Payroll deduction requires a form from Human Resources confirming your work assignment and is pre-tax. Temporary employees enrolled in classes might have already paid the MTSC, which includes the CATS pass. Check your tuition and fees statement in Banner Self-Service to confirm.
- Faculty Emeriti: Faculty Emeriti can purchase annual passes for $75 or semester passes for $50 through MyPark or at the PaTS office.
- Business Affiliates/Campus Partners: Business affiliates and campus partners can also access the pass program. Annual and semester passes are available for $75 and $50 respectively, and can be purchased through MyPark.
- Millennial Campus Business Partners: For Millennial Campus business partners, pass acquisition requires direct contact with Ali Mateen at 704-687-7993 or [email protected].
- Ineligibility: It’s important to note that family members, alumni (excluding faculty emeriti), and retirees are not eligible for the All-Access Pass. However, single ride tickets and other bus passes can be purchased separately. Single light rail tickets are available via the CATS-Pass app or at ticket vending machines at train stations. Bus passes are sold at specific locations, including the J.W. Clay/UNC Charlotte Station on weekdays.
Please be aware that UNC Charlotte’s Campus Transportation Policies state that refunds are not issued for transit passes.
Parking at LYNX Park and Ride Stations
CATS offers 11 Park and Ride stations along the Blue Line, including four on the extension, making it convenient to combine driving and light rail travel. While parking is free at most Park and Ride stations, a $10 fee is charged to exit the parking decks at the J.W. Clay/UNC Charlotte and University City Boulevard stations unless you have a valid CATS daily, weekly, or monthly pass. Your UNC Charlotte CATS All-Access Pass does not cover parking fees at these decks. If you don’t have another valid CATS parking pass, you will need to pay the parking fee upon exiting these specific stations.
Lost Items on CATS Transportation
While CATS strives to assist passengers, they cannot guarantee the recovery of items left on trains or buses. Due to the volume of lost items, CATS cannot store them indefinitely. Items found and delivered to CATS that are not claimed within 30 days become the property of the City of Charlotte and may be disposed of according to law.
If you have lost an item on CATS, you can visit the CATS Customer Service office at the Charlotte Transportation Center (Pavilion A) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. You can also call them at 704-336-RIDE (7433).
Need Assistance?
For any questions or issues related to your CATS-Pass App account or the CATS All-Access Pass, you can reach out to the CATS Call Center at 704-336-7433 or email [email protected]. For other inquiries, contact the PaTS Communication Center at 704-687-0161 or [email protected].
Embrace the convenience and accessibility of CATS transportation with your UNC Charlotte All-Access Pass and explore Charlotte with ease!
