Beyond the Bus

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.  

In 2022, CATA’s chief executive officer also became executive director of the Eaton County Transportation Authority. Shared management was a monumental step toward deepening the ongoing partnership between the two transit providers and launching a new era of regional mobility across the Capital region. Since then, the transit partnership has rolled out exciting new services that make it easier than ever for CATA and EATRAN riders to get a seamless ride to their favorite destinations across county lines.

A recent online survey found that Eaton County residents support improved public transit services — and the CATA-EATRAN partnership is doing just that. A new and improved Charlotte Connector returned to service in January, allowing Charlotte residents to catch a ride to key employment and shopping destinations in Delta Township and beyond. The new Charlotte Connector offers improved routing and expanded service hours, and — in an unprecedented move — Saturday service. Four months later, EATRAN launched the Grand Ledge Connector.

The Charlotte Connector created a blueprint for regional mobility. Considerable thought, planning, research and collaboration were required to bring this concept to life in Eaton County. The EATRAN team delivered a mobility solution that includes the voice of riders and residents.

Combined with CATA’s Route 3 extension, which debuted in May 2023 and added 30 new bus stops, both EATRAN Connectors support a network that integrates riders in Charlotte and Grand Ledge to the entire CATA system. Need to get to the Lansing airport? How about an MSU football game? Got a new job at the Amazon Fulfillment Center? You can count on EATRAN and CATA to get you there.

Watch for even more service enhancements as the region’s public transit partnership continues to bear fruit for residents across the region.

Related Stories:

• CATA awarded $1.6 million to expand regional transit
• EATRAN launches Grand Ledge Connector
• EATRAN to resume Charlotte Connector, Saturday service to launch

This content has been published in the 2024 Community Report.  

Dear Capital Region Resident:

As we reach the midpoint of another year filled with promise and progress, I'm thrilled to pause and reflect on the significant milestones we’ve attained in fiscal 2024. Our dedication to CATA's strategic goals remains unwavering: regional mobility, customer experience excellence, organizational strength, community partnership and dynamic workplace. These priorities continue to guide our efforts as we strive to meet the mobility needs of our region and beyond.

In recognition of our commitment to regional transit coordination, CATA was awarded $1.66 million from the Michigan Department of Transportation. This funding will support the Enhance Lansing Equity via Creative Transit Solutions project, to advance regional transit in an equitable manner. We're honored to partner with MDOT to ensure accessible and inclusive public transportation for all.

Our upcoming microtransit pilot program, alongside recent regional initiatives such as the Route 3 extension and the launch of EATRAN’s two Connectors in Eaton County, reflects our dedication to improving transit connectivity, increasing ridership, and reducing single-occupancy vehicle travel and associated air pollution. We're committed to staying at the forefront of progress, strengthening transportation options and enriching quality of life through innovative technologies and a shared vision with our transit partners, community leaders, business owners, stakeholders and, of course, our riders.

I'm excited about the future. Lansing Mayor Andy Schor's proposal to build a new home for municipal government adjacent to the CATA Transportation Center in downtown Lansing offers an extraordinary opportunity for CATA to help develop a regional transit-oriented, mixed-use facility. This facility could address our administrative space constraints and potentially accommodate other regional offices and their employees downtown. There is also an opportunity to foster collaboration and efficiency by bringing much-needed public services to the heart of Lansing.

Transit plays a key role in regional economic development, making our region an attractive place to live, work and start a business. CATA serves as a lifeline for many and a valuable resource for all. This new project represents a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to improve access to CATA services and enhance public transportation infrastructure. We’re committed to working with the city and other agencies to provide robust, high-quality transit services that meet the diverse needs of our community.

Join us in celebrating our achievements and vision for the future. Within the pages of CATA's 2024 Community Report, you'll find stories that highlight the Authority’s pledge to deliver the highest standard of service to our community. We're here to serve you, and reaffirm our commitment to delivering exceptional public transportation services, now and in years to come.

Sincerely,

Bradley T. Funkhouser

Related Stories:

• CATA awarded $1.6 million to expand regional transit
• EATRAN launches Grand Ledge Connector
• EATRAN to resume Charlotte Connector, Saturday service to launch

This content has been published in the 2024 Community Report.