CATConnect is constantly working to improve your riding experience. We are pleased to announce that we updated our reservation software to include enhanced features that you have been asking for.
Starting on March 1, 2022, CATConnect passengers will now use the following features:
CATConnect’s new reservation system became ticketless as of March 1, 2022. Tickets are no longer used to pay for trips. Passengers will set up prepaid cash accounts, in advance of travel, that can be loaded with cash in-person at a terminal or by sending in a check to set it up. As trips are taken, fares will be deducted from the available prepaid balance. Passengers will use this account to pay for all paratransit trips.
How to set up account: Passengers will need to contact CATConnect in-person or by mail, ahead of booking a trip. The account will be set-up with prepaid cash or a check. Mail should be sent to 8300 Radio Road, Naples, FL 34104 to the attention of the Mobility Manager. The check should be made out to Collier County Board of County Commissioners. If paying in person, visit either of our transfer stations at the following locations:
Once the account has been established, passengers can reload the account as needed.
CATcash will alert passengers/care-givers when the account balance is low or in zero balance status to avoid disruption of service. With the Prepaid CATcash accounts, a full transaction history is available to keep track of changes to the balance, such as deposits or deductions made on your account, through the rideCATconnect app, available in the Apple Store or Google Play Store, or by calling Customer Service at 239.252.7272.
CATConnect has implemented a new Integrated Voice Response (IVR) system that will give passengers a call the night before your scheduled trip as a reminder, with the option to cancel the trip. Passengers will also receive a call when their bus is approximately ten minutes away. However, in order to properly use this feature, here are some common tips to ensure a successful call:
The IVR system includes prompts asking passengers to select the number for the action they would like to perform. Passengers will have the ability to select the preferred language. During the night before call, a passenger will be able to select the option to cancel one or more trips.
An enhancement to a CATcash account includes giving passengers/care-givers the ability to manage their payments through the new rideCATconnect app.
The new mobile app provides access 24/7 to schedule and cancel trips; view booked trips; and pay for your trip in advance using a credit card. Passengers experience ease of use, flexibility to manage trips, and the ability to view trip details all with the touch of a screen. Because the vehicles use GPS, passengers will be able to plan their schedule conveniently and receive real-time updates about their scheduled trips.
When first setting up the app, please call our reservation department at 239.252.7272 to finalize your rideCAT Connect app account and then you will be ready to book rides through the convenience of your mobile device or computer.