For all the incredible cultural and artistic strengths Atlanta has, the city is not known for its public transit. That’s one thing Atlantans are constantly asking for: more MARTA stops, more access to public transit… and now, it seems that’s exactly what we’re getting!
On Monday, Mayor of Atlanta, Andre Dickens stated, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, “the largest expansion to MARTA’s train network in decades with four new stations expected to join the public transit system, including one at a large development project along the Beltline.”
More MARTA Stops
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that, “One station will be at Murphy Crossing along the Beltline’s Westside Trail, meaning the popular mixed-use trail loop will soon be connected to heavy rail.”
The other locations that Mayor Dickens announced will be “infill stations.” In other words, they won’t be as large, and they’ll just be stops in between stations that already exist. This will increase accessibility to MARTA in Atlanta for all. The more stops the better, when it comes to public transport.
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Why add more MARTA stops?
The AJC reports a statement from Andre Dickens during his annual State of the City:
‘“Our current MARTA rail system is underutilized, in part, because we don’t have enough stations located where our residents need them most… A better, more accessible rail system is key to Atlanta’s future and I am committed to ensuring that Atlanta residents have access to the quality transportation they deserve.”’
The exact locations of these infill stations has not yet been announced, nor has the exact cost or how the city plans to pay for it.
This news comes after, of course, the news about a BeltLine light rail, which has been in the works for years.
Whatever happens, we know more MARTA is more access to public transit!