21-05-2025
Channel Cat starts 30th season this week
The Channel Cat Water Taxi is starting its 30th anniversary season with a ribbon cutting and special event on Friday, May 23 at 10 a.m. at John Deere Commons behind the Wyndham Hotel, 1415 River Drive in Moline.
The event, which marks the official start of the 2025 season, features:
• Special recognitions honoring Kathy Wine, co-founder of River Action, and Jeff Nelson, CEO/managing director of MetroLINK, for their leadership with the Channel Cat
• Statements and resolutions from local, state and federal elected officials on the Channel Cat's value to the riverfront and community impact
• Ribbon cutting on improvements to the Moline riverfront bike path, plans for new docks in Davenport and East Moline and the future of electric ferries.
• Drawing for MetroLINK's Treasure Chest giveaway, featuring a prize basket valued at over $1,500 donated by local business and organizations.
The Channel Cat originally launched in 1995 and is a signature part of the Quad Cities experience, offering locals and visitors a unique way to explore the riverfront. With hop-on, hop-off service between key points in Moline, Bettendorf and Davenport, the Channel Cat combines transportation, recreation and riverfront development into one ride.
'The Channel Cat is more than just a ride across the river — it's part of what makes the Quad Cities a connected and vibrant region and has played a pivotal role in the region's riverfront development and our community's mobility,' said MetroLINK Manager of Administration Jennifer Hirsch. 'Celebrating 30 years is a proud moment for our entire community, and we're excited for what's to come.'
Regular service officially begins after the celebration, with daily operations running through Labor Day. Tickets can be bought online here, replacing the Channel Cat app.
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