Plan to improve CATS includes new bus lines, transfer centers, expanded service

CATS CEO Brian Marshall presented his long-awaited business plan today for upgrading and improving services to the city’s bus system. Among the highlights: establishing three new transfer centers; creating new express lines; bringing service to currently underserved areas; reducing wait times at bus stops; using GPS tracking to make routes and exact arrival times accessible via mobile devices; and increasing the number of bus stop shelters. The three-year plan makes use of the controversial 10-year, 10.6-mill property tax approved last spring by voters in Baton Rouge and Baker. A significant part of Marshall’s plan is the hiring of an outside program manager to oversee the implementation of the upgrades and improvements. CATS board Chairman Isaiah Marshall, no relation to Brian Marshall, says that manager might be an individual or a firm. Isaiah Marshall says the board also plans to hire a chief operating officer and a human resources manager. Brian Marshall’s plan also calls for hiring a public relations firm, which drew questions today from some CATS board members. The CEO defended the decision, saying a public relations firm is needed to survey the public and help determine new routes and preferred bus shelter amenities. “The easiest way to fail is to not have public input,” he says. You can look at the complete report here. —April Castro