Fare ambassador program to begin this week for Charlotte Area Transit System riders

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Charlotte Area Transit System riders in will be greeted with 60 new smiling faces starting on Friday.

On Friday, Oct. 30, the fare ambassador program for the Charlotte Area Transit System officially kicks off. The program is to help crack down on people riding the light rail for free.

The new fare ambassadors will do everything from checking for tickets to helping people find the correct route.

Riders say they appreciate any additions to keep people safe.

Related: Charlotte City Council approves fare inspector program for light rail, buses: What to know

The fare ambassadors are easy to spot and will be wearing blue pullovers and yellow hats with the words ‘fare ambassador’ emblazoned on the back.

“They gave a fare ambassadors thing to let us know basically what to expect out of them, I think just make more people aware of what’s going on,” said rider Tania Wright. “That’s good so it just doesn’t show up looking like military city or something.”

“Really the goal is just to make sure that we have a physical presence in the system,” said Catherine Kummer, the Director of Marketing and Communications for CATS. “People see those bright blue shirts and yellow hats and they know that those are individuals that can help them, whether it be with paying their fare or wayfinding.”

The 60 new team members will be divided into zones along the Blue Line helping riders, and most importantly checking for tickets.

Also Read: State audit of Charlotte public transportation finds lack of fare enforcement, gaps in security

“If someone doesn’t have their fare, then they’re going to give you options on how you can purchase your fare,” Kummer said. “They’re going to make it as easy as possible for them, but everyone has to pay a fare.”

It’s the newest measure in beefing up security along the light rail.

Also Read: Charlotte transportation leaders unveil new fare enforcement plans

Some riders say they’ve already seen more security recently and appreciate the addition.

“I really think it’s necessary everywhere. We should all be safe regardless of what type of transportation we’re using,” Wright said.

“I just like that its protection without making me feel nervous or wary of my surroundings. I think that’s nice to see,” said rider DeCarlos Kelly.

Others say they’re unsure of how successful the rollout will be.

“I would say sometimes it’s needed, sometimes it’s not. You’ve got people who are struggling sometimes just to get places, trying to make ends meet, but I understand it’s also a business, so you still got to make sure people got tickets,” said Jordan Cloud, a frequent Blue Line rider.

Related: 1 year after Iryna Zarutska killing, CATS points to security changes on Charlotte light rail

CATS leadership says there will still be Charlotte-Mecklenburg [olice and private security on patrol, but they’re hopeful the first line in that safety plan will make the Blue Line a safer and more enjoyable place for riders.

“I think this is just another approach to continue to enhance what’s already being done,” Kummer said.

Phase 2 of the program will put ambassadors on the bus routes and then phase 3 they will move to the Gold Line to help riders across all public transit.