Beyond the Bus

CATA serves people of every stripe and in all walks of life from students to families, professionals to retirees, and everyone in between. It’s no secret that many riders represent underserved and marginalized communities and supporting them is a collaborative effort. Lifting these vulnerable citizens isn’t just a strategic goal, it’s integral to CATA's core values.

CATA’s impact is greatly enhanced by its partnerships in the region. In fiscal 2023, the Authority supported over 53 non-profit organizations and local programs. CATA is grateful for the opportunity to assist agencies that provide essential social services to the region. CATA's support comes in various forms: donated bus passes, sponsorships and participation in community events.

Partnerships with the Refugee Development Center to welcome new residents, Habitat for Humanity to build homes and providing cooling or warming buses to local law enforcement during emergencies are just a few examples of how CATA supports the essential work of these organizations.

Learn more about how these partnerships are building a stronger, more resilient community at cata.org/Partnerships.

This content has been published in the 2024 Community Report.  

CATA's fleet and facilities are certified as "safe places" through the National Safe Place program, making CATA the first licensed agency partner in Michigan. This initiative contributes to the safety and well-being of vulnerable community members.

Operational in 40 states, the National Safe Place program provides immediate assistance to youths who face homelessness, abuse or exploitation. Through partnerships with community social services, CATA will extend this support to anyone in crisis.

If individuals are in danger or need assistance, they can notify a CATA employee. A supervisor will promptly meet them, assess the situation and connect them with appropriate resources or, if necessary, law enforcement. Signage detailing the program will be displayed in all CATA vehicles and facilities.

CATA's adoption of the National Safe Place program underscores its commitment to community safety and support for vulnerable individuals. This initiative complements existing efforts to address safety concerns and combat human trafficking through the See Say app, enabling users to anonymously report incidents.

Related Stories:

• CATA designated "Safe Place"

This content has been published in the 2024 Community Report.  

CATA's Transportation Center, located in downtown Lansing, opened to the public in 1997. More than a quarter-century later, it's no surprise the facility needs updates and improvements.

In recent years, the facility underwent several renovations including the addition of a dedicated resource room, conversion to energy efficient LED lighting and upgrades to the heating and cooling systems.

Soon, riders can expect to see a number of additional enhancements at the CTC. Replacement of the original roof, upgrading concrete driveways and approaches, remodeling restrooms and utilizing new technology to improve security are among the planned changes.

When renovations are completed, the CTC will serve as a regional transfer hub for not only CATA but EATRAN, Clinton Area Transit System, microtransit solutions, transportation network companies and intercity bus services.

This content has been published in the 2024 Community Report.