businfo

Figure out your route:

Visit the CATA website at www.cata.org or call 517-394-1000 for information on routes and stops.
From MSU campus, dial 517-432-2282. CATA has people available to help you over the phone from
7am-7pm weekdays and 9am-5pm weekends. There is also a Rider Alert Line at 367-7277, 24/7 to
get up-to-the-minute info on route changes.

Still not sure about your route? CATA also offers a "Trip Planner" service to help you figure out how
to get from place to place using the bus system. If you email info@cata.org, and give your starting
location and final destination, CATA staff will email you back with a step-by-step written description
of how to get where you want to go.You can also call 394-1000 and ask that this information be
mailed to you.

Below are other useful sections of the CATA website:

Below are some tips on how to use the bus that we have collected from transit authorities nationwide,
and which apply to the CATA system: (this info not produced by CATA unless indicated)

Boarding the bus:

Have your fare, transfer slip, or bus pass ready.
As the bus pulls up to the stop, be sure to read the destination sign on the front to check that the
bus will take you where you want to go. If you are at all unsure, ask the driver.
Stay on the curb until the bus stops and the doors open.
Some buses "kneel" or tilt down toward the curb, so that you can board more easily.
If you are in a wheelchair, you can use the wheelchair ramp or lift to board.
You can pay your fare with a bus pass or exact change. The fare box is directly in front of you as you
board. If you need a transfer, ask for it when you pay your fare.
Take a seat or hold a handrail after you have boarded.
Front bus seats are reserved for the elderly and disabled patrons. Move to the back of the bus when
possible and leave those seats available for wheelchairs and the disabled.
For the safety and convenience of other passengers, keep your packages and personal belongings
out of the aisles.

Loading your bike:

Visit the section of the CATA website that gives detailed instructions. (click here)

Getting off the bus:

When you're ready to get off, signal to the bus operator two blocks before your stop so that he or she
as sufficient time to stop smoothly.
Pull the yellow string to notify the driver that you wish to get off at the next stop.
Try to stay in your seat until the bus stops.
Exit at the rear door if there are a number of people waiting to board the bus.

Making connections:

Request a transfer slip from the driver to transfer onto another bus.
Transfer slips do not work at "round-trip" tickets. For your return trip on the same bus line, you will
need to pay the full fare.

Safety information:

Don't run for the bus - that's when most customer accidents happen.
While you're riding, keep your arms and head inside the bus windows.
When you're ready to get off, signal to the bus operator two blocks before your stop so that he or she
has sufficient time to stop smoothly.
Hold the rail when you exit the bus, especially in the winter.
As you leave the bus, watch for cars.
Avoid crossing in front of the bus after you get off.