The Knoxville Transportation Authority (KTA) has approved several initiatives proposed by Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) aimed at improving public transportation access and addressing current workforce challenges.

Zero-Fare Pilot Program and Enhanced Downtown Mobility

Beginning November 23, KAT, in partnership with Visit Knoxville, will launch a zero-fare pilot program on Route 1, known as the Downtown Connector. This decision stems from extensive public input indicating a demand for improved transportation options in downtown Knoxville. Isaac Thorne, KAT’s Executive Director, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “The approval of the zero-fare pilot program for Route 1 has a meaningful impact on downtown Knoxville. Passengers will be able to utilize the Downtown Connector service at no cost, increasing access to jobs, services, and businesses.”

The Downtown Connector is designed to serve key areas in the city, including the Old City, Market Square, Gay Street, Main Street, and Depot Avenue. With the holiday season approaching, including events such as "Christmas in the City" starting November 28 and the Smokies Winter Wonderland Light Show beginning December 5, officials expect increased usage of the free service. Thorne also thanked Visit Knoxville for their collaboration in making this initiative possible, hoping it will encourage families visiting downtown for holiday festivities to explore KAT’s transit options.

Adjustments to Bus Routes Amid Workforce Shortages

In light of ongoing workforce shortages impacting transit operations nationwide, KAT is actively recruiting new drivers and support staff while adjusting schedules for some routes. Effective December 1, the KTA approved changes to five of KAT's lesser-used routes, transitioning from a 30-minute service frequency to 60 minutes. The affected routes include:

- Route 12: Western
- Route 15: Woodland Crosstown
- Route 20: Central/Clinton Highway
- Route 42: Fort Sanders/UT Medical Center

Additionally, weekday service on Route 17: Sutherland/Bearden will be temporarily suspended, although Sunday service will continue. KAT assures that passengers utilizing Route 17 can still rely on Route 11: Southerland/Kingston Pike, which covers most of the same stops, albeit with a revised schedule.

Thorne highlighted that these modifications aim to enhance reliability. By reducing frequency, KAT can provide more consistent service, minimizing disruptions due to unavailability of replacement drivers when regulars are absent. He acknowledged the challenges posed by current staffing shortages but expressed optimism about the future: “As much as we hate to temporarily reduce frequency on these five routes, this decision allows us to provide consistent service that our customers can count on.”

To stay informed about route changes effective December 1, passengers can visit www.katbus.com. It is important to note that app updates on the Transit App and Google Trip Planner will not reflect the adjustments until that date.

Efforts to Recruit and Retain Staff

KAT is actively addressing its staffing issues through competitive pay increases and recruitment initiatives. Recently, ten new drivers have secured their Commercial Driver Licenses and are in advanced training phases, alongside an additional six employees who have begun entry-level driver training. A job fair held on November 13 yielded ten job offers to bus operator applicants.

Wage increases are part of KAT's strategy to attract and retain talent, with mechanics currently earning $28.16 per hour and service employees achieving $22.30 per hour after one year. Experienced bus drivers will see their pay increase from $27.27 to $29.07 per hour by summer 2027.

KAT emphasizes its commitment to providing reliable and efficient transit services, bolstered by ongoing efforts to build a robust workforce that meets community needs. Passengers needing assistance with their travel plans can contact Customer Service at 865-215-7800 or use the Transit app for scheduling help.