The new school year is in full swing, and families are navigating busy schedules, after-school events, sports, and other extracurricular activities. Busy parents are trying to figure out how to get their children from one place to another. And traffic begins to increase on Southwest Florida roads as our quieter summer months come to an end.
One great travel option for families and teens to consider is Collier Area Transit (CAT), Collier County’s public transportation agency. CAT has provided 21,500,000 bus rides since its inception in 2001.
Where Can Collier Area Transit Take Your Family?
CAT offers a safe and affordable way to travel throughout the county. Its bus stops sit close to many retailers, restaurants, and local attractions.
- 16 routes in Naples, Marco Island, and Immokalee
- 30 fixed-route buses
- Over 500 bus stops
For families with older children beginning to venture out on their own, CAT buses provide an alternative mode of travel for those who may not have a ride or car available.
Students will especially appreciate the free Wi-Fi and charging ports on all CAT buses. Free Wi-Fi also is available at the three CAT bus terminals:
- The Government Center on U.S. 41 and Airport Road
- Radio Road and Davis Boulevard
- Immokalee City
Is CAT Safe for Kids and Teens?
Safety is CAT’s top priority. Every CAT bus operator is licensed, passes background checks, and receives extensive training.
CAT is proud to have several bus operators driving CAT for more than 20 years, greeting many passengers and their families by name and with a friendly hello.
Each CAT bus is also built with live cameras inside and outside the bus. Transit staff and dispatchers can view live activity every minute.
Accessible for Strollers and Wheelchairs
CAT is 100% accessible, with floor ramps and secure wheelchair tie-downs. That makes boarding safe and easy for strollers and for those with mobility needs.
How Do You Pay for a CAT Bus Ride?
Collier Area Transit offers seamless fare options, including new electronic fareboxes and mobile ticketing.
- Pay on board at CAT’s new electronic fareboxes.
- Buy passes digitally through the Transit app or at rideCAT.com.
- Set up a free transit account to load funds electronically and purchase passes, including 15-day and 30-day options, at VanillaDirect retailers such as Walgreens, 7-Eleven, and CVS.
What Discounts Does CAT Offer Students and Families?
- Students: $1 fares for students
- Summer riders: a $30 Student Summer Paw Pass with unlimited rides for students every June 1–Aug. 31
- Seniors, Medicare members, and military: reduced fares for ages 65 and older, those on Medicare, and active or retired military personnel
- Young children: kids 5 years of age and under ride CAT for free
How Does Riding CAT Help the Environment?
Riding CAT is an environmentally friendly transportation option for families and students. It helps reduce traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions across Southwest Florida.
CAT recently launched its first electric bus. It is also looking ahead to the completion of a new, state-of-the-art sustainable Operations and Maintenance Facility at its Radio Road headquarters. The facility will feature solar panels to reduce power consumption and charging stations to support electric vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Collier Area Transit cost for students?
Students ride CAT for $1. From June 1 to Aug. 31, students can buy a $30 Student Summer Paw Pass for unlimited rides.
Do young children ride CAT for free?
Yes. Children 5 years of age and under ride CAT for free.
Where can I buy a CAT bus pass?
Passes are available through the Transit app and at rideCAT.com. Passengers can also set up a free transit account and purchase passes at VanillaDirect retailers such as Walgreens, 7-Eleven, and CVS.
Do CAT buses have Wi-Fi?
Yes. All CAT buses have free Wi-Fi and charging ports. Free Wi-Fi is also available at CAT’s three bus terminals.