Dear Capital Region Resident,
Public transportation plays a vital role in connecting people to employment, education, healthcare and essential services. As our communities continue to evolve, CATA remains focused on providing safe, reliable and accessible transportation while addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Our strategic goals — regional mobility, customer experience excellence, organizational strength, community partnership and dynamic workplace — remain the foundation for our work and our vision for the future.
One of our most important initiatives this year has been CATA’s Road Ahead, a COA or systemwide transit study that is helping establish a long-term roadmap for mobility throughout the Capital Region. Through this effort, riders, residents, employees and community stakeholders are shaping the next chapter of public transportation while ensuring decisions reflect the needs of the communities we serve.
Partnerships remain critical to advancing our mission. Through the Federal Section 5310 Program and collaborations with housing providers, local governments and community organizations, CATA is helping better connect transportation, housing and other essential community resources. These partnerships help expand access, reduce barriers and improve quality of life throughout the region.
We made significant investments to improve the customer experience and strengthen our system. The launch of our redesigned website and enhanced digital tools has made transit information easier to access while improving accessibility for all users. We expanded our zero-emission fleet with two full-size battery-electric buses, advancing our commitment to sustainability and innovation while continuing to provide reliable service throughout the region.
We also advanced the activation of the former Greyhound building at 511 S. Washington Ave. As we gradually bring the space online, we began hosting CATA Board of Directors meetings there, creating additional opportunities for customers and community members to attend, participate and engage in the public process.
As you explore this year’s Community Report, you will see how CATA continues to strengthen partnerships, improve mobility and expand access across the region. While public transportation systems across the country continue to face funding challenges, rising operating costs and uncertainty surrounding long-term investment, we remain committed to responsible stewardship, innovation and delivering the reliable service our community depends on. Thank you for your continued support. We are proud to serve the Capital Region and look forward to continuing to build a more connected community.