Double the resources: CATS leader asks for more funding to promote safety [Video]

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – From buses to the light rail to street cars, thousands of people in Charlotte take city transportation everyday. However, instances of gunfire, stabbings and other crimes have caused people to fear for their safety when using public transportation.

The WBTV Investigates team has reported extensively on CATS safety issues for the past several years.

As part of the budget process, the interim CEO of Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), Brent Cagle, spoke to Mecklenburg County commissioners Tuesday night about money to make the rides safer.

Part of Cagle’s message to commissioners was that it takes money to improve safety.

“We believe it’s so important to double the spending we have on safety and security,” Cagle said. “Double our contractors, but also really double the resources.”

Cagle said safety and security are focused on three areas. The first is the goal of obtaining new security contracts doubling the number of armed and unarmed guards, as well as stepped-up help from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police …