CATS puts bus-tracking technology on hold

Fewer than nine months after launching a new GPS software system and smartphone app meant to allow riders to track buses in real time, CATS announced today it is temporarily suspending use of the CATS Trax Technology. Interim CEO Bob Mirabito—himself a retired technology executive—announced the decision today via a news release, which says the suspension is “a part of an ongoing effort to tweak the data input aspect of the system. “As a part of the new system, we are changing our routes to better serve our riders,” Mirabito says in the release. “CATS Trax is a major part of the new system.” Under former CEO Brian Marshall, CATS launched the software and app in late January. The system has had its problems since being launched, with some riders complaining it was seldom reliable. In late March, CATS officials said they were working on the issues. CATS inked a $1.4 million contract with Atlanta-based RouteMatch Software for the system. “We look forward to answering any questions [Mirabito] has for our side of the equation,” says RouteMatch Vice President Richard Greenway in the statement provide by CATS. Mirabito says he is tirelessly evaluating every aspect of CATS operations—not just CATS Trax—to ensure that riders have the best experience possible. “I will not rest until everything with a CATS logo meets a high standard of accountability,” he says. “We’re not waiting until the New Year gets here to be prepared. I want us ready as soon as possible.” —Rachel Alexander