Omar De Leon, Senior Planner with Collier Area Transit (CAT) hosted two public forums on Tuesday in Immokalee to discuss proposed changes with CAT bus routes in Immokalee. The proposed route changes are part of the overall process to improve service in Immokalee. De Leon said that CAT officials have held a few meetings in Immokalee and sought input from local residents and community leaders on the areas needing improvement. Based on the input received, CAT officials have developed a plan to change how Routes 22 and 23 operate. As it stands, both routes begin and end in Naples, but during the day they are used as circulars in Immokalee and both follow the same route on staggered times. The change will split the one route in two different routes which will expand the service area that currently exists. Route 22 will add stops in the Tradeport Technology Park area across from the Immokalee Airport and go further into Farm Worker Village rather than turning around at the Laundromat. Route 23 will add stops along North 15th Street between Lake Trafford Road and Westclox Street. The change will also add one additional evening loop through town before the buses head back to Naples. De Leon added that if approved by Collier County Commissioners in September, the changes will go into effect in November. The goal is to help make pedestrian traffic safer in Immokalee for those without private transportation De Leon added. While there is no significant and immediate financial impact, there may be a cost associated with improving bus stop structures as ridership numbers are determined after the new route changes are implemented. To follow these changes, find routes, or bus fare information, check out www.GoCATbus.com.