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Kingsport transit launches CATS Connect on-demand service; fare zones simplified
Summary
Katz Transit launched CATS Connect, an on-demand service using a Mobility by Ecolane app, and restructured fares and zones for ADA and Dollaride services. January ridership increased year over year.
Kingsport Transit’s operator reported the soft launch of a new on-demand service called CATS Connect and concurrent fare-zone changes during the MTPO meeting on Feb. 13.
Tim (Kingsport Transit) said CATS Connect launched Feb. 3 and functions like a ride-hailing service where users create an account and can book same-day trips, subject to availability. The service uses Dodge Ram ProMaster vans; trips are available citywide within Kingsport, and the fare is a flat $3 each way for most customers. For ADA customers the citywide fare is $2 each way for the service that was previously zone-priced.
Katz also introduced a mobile app, Mobility by Ecolane, available in the App Store and Google Play, to self-book trips; booking by phone and account setup remain available for those who cannot use the app. Tim said trips may be requested at least 60 minutes in advance and up to 14 days out. He described the service as “curb to curb” rather than door-to-door, and noted vehicles are equipped to accommodate mobility aids when requested in the booking process.
Tim reported ridership growth: “In January, we had 7,095,” he said, noting that figure was 228 trips more than December and that the agency’s January ridership the prior year was lower. The agency will hold off on fixed-route restructuring while monitoring CATS Connect’s performance.
Regional partners reported similar microtransit expansions in parts of southwest Virginia and the Norton/Wise area with high demand and growing active rider counts. Transit providers also noted ongoing training reviews and federal program pauses affecting discretionary grant and electric-vehicle infrastructure announcements.
