CATA announces service changes and new CATAGO! mobile app

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. – The Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA) has announced service changes for the start of the new year and a new mobile app for its on-demand microtransit service, CATAGO!.

CATA mid-year service adjustments effective Monday, Jan. 8

CATA is activating a series of adjustments to its scheduled fixed route and microtransit services, based on the availability of bus operators. These changes will go into effect Monday, Jan. 8.

The current nation-wide operator shortage poses a challenge, but it also provides an opportunity for CATA to optimize its services and become more efficient. CATAGO! microtransit service offers additional travel options for this optimization.

There are six routes that will be affected: College Ave Connector, Atherton St Connector, NE Martin St Express, VE Vairo Express, and HU Toftrees/University Terrace.

These changes will also impact Red Link campus service, reducing the number of buses by one during peak service.

Visit the CATA website for full details on upcoming service adjustments.

CATA will host the following information sessions from noon to 1p.m. the week of Dec. 11 on upcoming service adjustments:

• Monday, Dec. 11- Ferguson Township Building’s auditorium
• Thursday, Dec. 14 - State College Borough Building room 241
• Friday, Dec. 15 - Patton Township Building in the board meeting room

New CATAGO! app available Dec. 13

CATA will launch a new mobile app for its CATAGO! program on Wednesday, Dec. 13.

The CATAGO! app will be available on both iOS and Android platforms and will include features such as real-time tracking of CATAGO! vehicles, estimated arrival times, route maps, service alerts, customizable notifications, and more.

CATAGO! is an on-demand microtransit service similar to Uber and Lyft that offers a shared-ride, accessible, curb-to-curb shuttle service experience. CATAGO! operates within designated zones, with same-day trip reservations made through the CATAGO! mobile app or by phone.

To learn more about the CATAGO! mobile app, please visit the CATA website.