CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Small and emerging businesses across the Charlotte region are being encouraged to explore new contracting opportunities as part of the Charlotte Area Transit System's (CATS) Better Bus Program, a major initiative focused on modernizing and enhancing the region's public transit network.

Representatives from Egis Group, a consultant working with CATS and the Metropolitan Public Transportation Authority (MPTA), recently shared details with members of the Transportation Small Business Committee regarding current and upcoming construction opportunities available through the program. 

CATS and MPTA have released two Invitations to Bid (ITBs) for construction projects related to the Better Bus Program, which currently includes plans to construct 28 new bus shelters throughout the Charlotte region. The projects focus on site preparation and accessibility improvements, including demolition of existing infrastructure, installation of concrete pads, curb and gutter enhancements, sidewalk construction and repairs, ADA accessibility upgrades, and related site improvements. 

To increase participation among small, local, and emerging businesses, the work has been divided into manageable contract packages, allowing companies of varying sizes to compete for project opportunities. Additional contracting opportunities related to bus shelter construction and installation are expected to be released in the coming months. 

Businesses interested in pursuing these opportunities can access bid documents through the City of Charlotte's Bonfire Procurement Hub. A Bonfire account is required to view all solicitation materials, though creating an account does not automatically register a company as a City vendor. 

The current ITBs focus on site preparation and accessibility enhancements, including:

• Demolition of existing infrastructure

• Installation of concrete pads

• Curb and gutter improvements

• Sidewalk construction and repairs

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility upgrades

• Other related site improvements

Pre-bid workshops have been scheduled for September 15 and September 17, 2026, to help interested firms better understand the requirements of the current solicitations. All bids are due by October 13, 2026. 

For information about the current Invitation to Bids, reach out to Todd Holcomb, Transit Procurement Officer at 980-406-7120 or by email at Todd.Holcomb@charlottenc.gov

The Better Bus Program is funded in part through revenue generated by the voter-approved one percent sales tax referendum, enabling CATS to accelerate transit infrastructure improvements and expand service enhancements across the community. 

For additional information about the current ITBs, interested businesses may contact Transit Procurement Officer Todd Holcomb. 

Learn More

Businesses can view current opportunities through the City of Charlotte's Bonfire Procurement Hub: Charlotte Procurement Opportunities.