CAT Union Calls Savannah's Transit System 'Worst We Have Ever Been'

Chatham Area Transit workers criticize leadership as new county-appointed board members take over

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The leader of Chatham Area Transit's union in Savannah is denying that workers are planning an illegal strike, but says the system's wages, maintenance, and overall quality are at their worst ever. She's criticizing CAT leadership and questioning how rumors of a strike began, while expressing cautious optimism about new Chatham County–appointed board members who may prioritize workers and riders.

Why it matters

Savannah's public transit system plays a crucial role in connecting residents to jobs, healthcare, and other essential services. The union's concerns about wages, maintenance, and service quality raise questions about the system's ability to effectively serve the community, especially lower-income residents who rely on it most.

The details

According to the union leader, CAT's wages, maintenance, and overall quality are at their worst levels ever, leading to low morale and concerns about the system's future. She criticized CAT leadership, saying the rumors of a strike began without the union's knowledge. The union leader expressed cautious optimism about new Chatham County-appointed board members who may prioritize workers and riders, in contrast to previous leadership.

  • The union leader made these comments in early March 2026.

The players

Chatham Area Transit (CAT)

The public transportation system serving Savannah and Chatham County, Georgia.

CAT Union

The labor union representing Chatham Area Transit workers.

Chatham County

The county that encompasses Savannah and appoints members to the CAT board.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The new Chatham County-appointed CAT board members will likely make decisions in the coming months that could address the union's concerns and improve the transit system's operations.

The takeaway

The issues raised by the CAT union highlight the challenges facing Savannah's public transportation system and the need for strong leadership and investment to ensure it can effectively serve the community's mobility needs.