The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) is marking five years of passenger service on its Gold Line streetcar as the agency prepares to expand the route.

The Gold Line opened for passenger service on August 30, 2021, and currently operates along four miles of track between French Street Station in Charlotte’s Historic West End and Sunnyside Station near Plaza Midwood.

Since opening, the streetcar has carried more than 2.8 million passengers across its 17 stations, according to CATS. Among its busiest stops are CTC Arena, Tryon Street, Johnson & Wales, CPCC, and Sunnyside.

Battery Technology Enables Wire-Free Operation

The Gold Line introduced hybrid Siemens S700 streetcars that can operate on either overhead power or onboard batteries.

The battery system allows the vehicles to operate without overhead wires through Uptown Charlotte, preserving the Tryon Street parade route while also allowing the streetcars to pass beneath low-clearance bridges along the alignment.

“The Gold Line serves some of Charlotte’s most historic and vibrant neighborhoods, and its success reflects the value of investing in communities,” said Brent Cagle, interim CEO of CATS. “As we look ahead, we remain focused on building a system that supports every rider, every day.”

Gold Line Expansion Planned

The streetcar is also slated for expansion under CATS’ 2055 Transit System Plan following Mecklenburg County voters’ approval of a sales tax referendum in November 2025.

The proposed extension would add approximately six miles of track and up to 17 stations, creating new connections to the Eastland Community Transit Center and Rosa Parks Community Transit Center.

Plans also call for the Gold Line to connect with the proposed Charlotte Gateway Station and other transit corridors, expanding the streetcar’s role within the region’s broader transit network.