When local residents think of Capital Area Transit System (CATS), it’s likely they envision the large buses cruising the streets of Baton Rouge. But CATS is more than buses; it’s about connecting people to what matters— through transit solutions that cater to their needs.
One such game-changer is LYNX by CATS’ microtransit service. Launched in June 2022, LYNX redefines convenience with a user-friendly app enabling ride requests. Within 15 to 20 minutes, a van arrives to transport passengers throughout the Baker area. CEO Theo Richards acclaims LYNX’s success, with more than 100,000 rides and poised for expansion.
AT A GLANCE
Top executives: Theo Richards, CEO
Phone: 225.389.8920
Address: 2250 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802
Website: brcats.com
Beyond Baker’s confines, LYNX links critical destinations like Southern University and Lane Regional Medical Center, bridging gaps in accessibility. Seamlessly connecting riders to Baton Rouge’s broader bus network, it’s a lifeline for those who rely on public transit.
Complementing LYNX is CATS on Demand, a system for riders with dis[1]abilities or mobility constraints. With a simple application process and a phone call, users access tailored transportation to vital locations, from medical appointments and grocery store runs, to work and school. Richards emphasizes their mission: ensuring no one is left behind in accessing essential services.
Yet the impact transcends mere mobility. It’s about empowerment. Take the Baker resident who credited LYNX for clinching a job interview, a testament to its transformative potential. Such services aren’t just about getting from A to B; they’re catalysts for personal growth and economic prosperity.
Moreover, affordability underscores CATS’ commitment to equitable transit. With fares mirroring regular buses, at $1.75 per trip, financial constraints don’t hinder access. It’s about leveling the playing field, ensuring everyone can participate in the city’s opportunities.
CATS’ initiatives go beyond transit. They’re engines of change, propelling communities toward a brighter future. By democratizing access to mobility, they foster a cycle of progress in which individuals thrive, businesses flourish, and communities prosper.
CATS is a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment. Through LYNX, CATS on Demand, and similar initiatives, it’s rewriting the narrative of public transit, one ride at a time—because in Baton Rouge, everyone deserves a seat on the journey to success.
