CATS Gold Line Streetcar Celebrates
Charlotte's CATS Gold Line streetcar celebrates its fifth anniversary, having carried over 2.8 million passengers since 2021.
The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its Gold Line streetcar service. The line opened for passenger service on August 30, 2021, according to a press release from the agency.
The hybrid streetcar route serves 17 stations along four miles of track. It connects the Historic West End's French Street Station to Sunnyside Station near Plaza Midwood.
Ridership and Popular Stops
Since its launch, the Gold Line has transported more than 2.8 million passengers. The system's top stops include CTC Arena, Tryon Street, Johnson & Wales University, Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC), and Sunnyside. For detailed passenger stats, visit the CATS website.
Hybrid Streetcar Technology
The line uses Siemens S700 streetcars, described as a first-of-its-kind hybrid model. These vehicles can operate using overhead wires or switch to an onboard battery system. This battery capability allows for wire-free travel through Uptown Charlotte. The design preserves the Tryon Street parade route and enables safe passage under low-clearance bridges along the alignment.
Future Expansion Plans
Future expansion is planned following a Mecklenburg County sales tax referendum approved by voters in November 2025. As part of the 2055 Transit System Plan, an extension adding roughly six miles of track and up to 17 new stations is proposed. This expansion is a key part of the long-term transit standings for the region.
The planned extension would create new connections to the Eastland Community Transit Center and the Rosa Parks Community Transit Center. It would also provide a critical link between the proposed Charlotte Gateway Station and other transit corridors.
Brent Cagle, the Interim CEO of CATS, commented on the line's role. "The Gold Line serves some of Charlotte’s most historic and vibrant neighborhoods, and its success reflects the value of investing in communities," Cagle said. He added that the focus remains on building a system that supports every rider.
System Details and Accessibility
The agency encourages riders to use the CATS-Pass app for live vehicle tracking and trip planning. For questions, customers can call 704-366-7433 to speak directly with a service representative.
The City of Charlotte states it does not discriminate based on disability. Reasonable accommodations or free translation services can be requested by emailing telltransit@charlottenc.gov or calling 704-336-7433. The call center operates Monday through Friday from 5:30 a.m. To 7 p.m., and on weekends from 7 to 11:30 a.m. And 12:30 to 4 p.m.
As the Gold Line moves forward, CATS states it will continue to play a vital role in connecting communities and supporting local businesses.
