‘It’s taking a toll on us all’: CAT bus riders react to Chatham County’s attempt to end bus service

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Chatham County commissioners plan to end their agreement with CAT citing lack of transparency over funding and lack of services.

Riders have been telling WTOC unreliable routes have been impacting them for a while now— citing issues they’ve experienced like unpredictable bus schedules, riders say the service can be hit or miss.

“Sometimes it’s just pressing your luck,” said James Hamilton, CAT rider. “Depends on if the driver’s having a good day or not. You know, like traffic. A lot of things might complicate that.”

CAT riders like James say the recent news of Chatham County’s notice to CAT makes them feel uneasy.

“The predicament is something that, you know, it’s taking a toll on us all,” said Hamilton. “Especially for those using it for medical appointments.”

“It’s just that, it’s, by them not having enough bus drivers and stuff,” said Clara Ward, CAT rider. “So, you have to just go along with them.”

In a press conference on Tuesday, Chatham County Chairman Chester Ellis claimed that what really sparked them to give CAT notice that they could end their agreement was a federal complaint.

“When we got wind of it, we just can’t continue to do what we’re doing the way they’re doing it,” said Chester Ellis, Chairman, Chatham County Commissioners.

A spokesperson for the CAT board says they cannot comment on a pending case.

What’s next

What’s next for CAT’s relationship for Chatham County remains unclear, but while this is all happening, both sides say the people riding these buses will be impacted the most.

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson is now weighing in, urging Chatham County commissioners and the CAT board to sit down together to figure out a solution for everyone involved.