The Cumberland Area Transit System (CATS) is a vital service provided by the Cumberland County Office on Aging and Disability Services. CATS offers essential bus transportation to a diverse range of Cumberland County residents, including senior citizens aged 60 and older, veterans, individuals with disabilities, and the general public. Operating Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., this demand-response bus service ensures residents can access locations throughout Cumberland County.
How to Utilize CATS for Your Transportation Needs
Planning your journey with CATS is straightforward. To book a ride, simply contact the dispatch office at 691-7799 at least two days prior to your intended travel date. The optimal time to make routine reservation calls is between 9:30 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For urgent matters such as cancellations, medical emergencies, or inquiries about same-day or next-day reservations (which are subject to availability), the dispatch office is accessible from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
CATS Mission: Providing Reliable Transportation for Cumberland County
The core mission of the Cumberland Area Transit System is to deliver peace of mind to the community. CATS acts as a crucial lifeline, connecting residents of Cumberland County with essential resources through safe and dependable transportation services. This commitment to reliability and safety underpins every aspect of the CATS operation.
Funding and Financial Transparency
The operation of CATS is made possible through a combination of funding sources, significantly supported by grants from New Jersey Transit. For those interested in the financial aspects of the service, the Fiscal Year 2024 application to N.J. Transit is publicly accessible for review, promoting transparency and accountability. Specifically, the Fiscal Year 2024 application provides detailed insights into the funding mechanisms. Furthermore, materials from the Fiscal Year 2024 Public Hearing concerning Senior Citizen & Disabled Resident Transportation are also available. These include a PowerPoint Presentation and the Proposed Budget, offering a comprehensive overview of the financial planning and resource allocation for CATS.
Commitment to Non-Discrimination and Accessibility
CATS is firmly committed to providing services to all members of the community without discrimination. In alignment with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, CATS ensures equal access to transportation regardless of race, color, or national origin. Individuals who believe they have experienced discrimination are encouraged to consult the Complaint Policy for Title VI Enforcement and utilize the Title VI Complaint Form to report any concerns.
Furthermore, CATS fully adheres to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), guaranteeing accessibility and non-discrimination for individuals with disabilities. For details regarding the ADA grievance process, please refer to the ADA Grievance Procedure. CATS is dedicated to providing Reasonable Accommodation to ensure all riders can comfortably and effectively utilize the transportation services.
Contact CATS: Reaching Out for Further Information
For direct assistance and further inquiries, the CATS team is readily available.
Susan Sauro, Division Director, can be reached at Phone: (856) 691-9331 ext. 101.
Sherrie Reed, Confidential Secretary, is also available at Phone: (856) 691-9331 ext. 100.
For immediate dispatch needs or to arrange a ride, please contact the Dispatch Office directly at Phone: (856) 691-7799.
CATS remains dedicated to serving the Cumberland County community, ensuring accessible and reliable transportation options for all eligible residents. Whether you are a senior, veteran, person with a disability, or a member of the general public, CATS is here to facilitate your transportation needs within Cumberland County.
