Capital Area Transit (CAT) and rabbittransit recently announced plans to merge into a single entity to be called the Susquehanna Regional Transportation Authority. The merger is intended to provide opportunities for increased levels of mobility and result in improved efficiencies for operations. The new, joint authority will be able to leverage the buying power of a larger organization, eliminate duplicative operations, and have greater opportunity to qualify for discretionary grants.

As a result, CAT and rabbittransit intend to offer enhanced services, including a single fare payment system, expanded call center hours, improved connections to large regional employers, enhanced service to regional health care programs, and enhanced connectivity between campuses for students. The merger will help avoid a proposed 40% reduction in service at CAT, which has been struggling financially. Additionally, it is not expected to have any impact on current bus drivers or mechanics at either agency. CAT and rabbittransit noted that in 2014, transit agencies in Berks and Lancaster counties went through a similar merger.

The next step in the process is for the two authorities to hold public hearings on the proposal and then adopt resolutions. The CAT board of directors is set to meet on Thursday, Jan. 28, at noon, and the rabbittransit board of directors will meet on Thursday, Feb. 4, at 7 p.m. The public is invited to join by Zoom or phone.

To register for the public hearing, community members may contact info@rabbittransit.org or 800-632-9063.