CATS Continues Implementation of SmartCATS COA with Phase 2 Service Changes and Fare-Free Week
CATS Continues Implementation of SmartCATS COA with Phase 2 Service Changes and Fare-Free Week
The Capital Area Transit System (CATS) is continuing implementation of its SmartCATS Comprehensive Operational Analysis (COA) with a second phase of service changes scheduled for fall 2025. The COA, a 10-year strategic plan, offers a system-wide evaluation of the CATS bus network and includes data-driven recommendations to improve service reliability, accessibility, and efficiency.
Phase 2 of service changes will take effect on [Insert Effective Date], building upon adjustments made in July. These refinements are based on real-time performance data and rider feedback collected since the initial rollout.
Phase 2 Highlights:
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Routes 10, 11, 20, and 47: Weekday schedule adjustments to reflect actual travel times and improve on-time performance.
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Route 21: Increased frequency to every 60 minutes on weekdays.
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Route 46: All departures will shift 10 minutes earlier to improve transfer connections at the Mall of Louisiana.
To assist riders in adjusting to the new schedules, CATS will offer fare-free rides from October 5–11, 2025. This initiative is intended to make the transition easier and ensure passengers can explore updated routes without fare concerns.
These changes support key COA priorities, including enhanced frequency on core routes, improved connectivity through timed transfers, and the groundwork for four future routes: the BRAPID Plank-Nicholson Bus Rapid Transit, Old Hammond Highway route, Amazon Connector, and Plank Road – North route.
The COA also complements ongoing accessibility initiatives like the All Stops Accessible Project (ASAP), which is focused on improving bus stop access across the system.
Route implementation began in July 2025, with more updates scheduled in phases. Once construction of the North Transit Center (5275 Airline Hwy) is complete, routes currently served by the Earl K. Long Transfer Center – N (#1004) will transition to the new facility.