The Central Arkansas Transit Authority (CATA) board of directors voted on Jan. 20 to take the steps necessary to rename CATA as the Rock Region Metropolitan Transit Authority and rebrand the fleet color scheme and design. The transition of the name and design will occur in late summer.
The agency rebranding process is one component of CATA’s comprehensive strategic plan, MOVE Central Arkansas, which is currently in development. The draft plan also includes major service enhancements and dedicated funding options to support the modernization of the transit network.
Last year, the board approved $6.9 million in federal and local funds for the purchase of 15 new, clean-fuel CNG buses from Gillig LLC. The buses will be unveiled this summer with the fresh, new design.
“The decision to completely rebrand the authority is the first concrete result of the MOVE Central Arkansas plan.” stated Jarod Varner, CATA executive director. “Renaming and rebranding the agency is a significant step and has energized the grassroots advocates interested in developing a modern, appropriately funded transit system. More great things will be coming from MOVE Central Arkansas. ”
