Exciting Updates on the Atlanta BeltLine Transit Development
Atlanta residents gathered on September 26 at a community meeting to discuss the latest developments regarding the transit system along the Atlanta BeltLine. The Atlanta BeltLine, a unique urban development project spanning 22 miles, focuses on creating recreational spaces and a seamless transportation network that connects various neighborhoods in Atlanta. This meeting marked the first chance for the public to learn about potential light rail alignments and intended stops in the southeast, southwest, and northwest sections of the project.
What’s in the Works?
The meeting was led by the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. (ABI), which has been thoroughly studying possible light rail routes since MARTA’s previous feasibility study in 2021. This current phase primarily covers a 13-mile stretch from Glenwood Avenue, south of I-20, to Bankhead on the west side, extending north near the Lindbergh MARTA station. Impressively, about 80 percent of the $3.5 million allocated for this transit study comes from a federal grant, allowing ABI to explore various options without straining local budgets.
Shaun Green, principal engineer for ABI and project manager for the study, expressed the organization’s commitment to expanding transit networks and ensuring they connect not just within the BeltLine but also beyond it. He stated, “One of our main goals is to create a transit network that expands and reaches out into the city,” highlighting how important this project is for the future of Atlanta’s transportation landscape.
Southeast Beltline Updates
In the southeast corridor, which stretches from the Murphy Crossing infill station to Glenwood Ave, the team evaluated 14 proposed station locations. After careful consideration, they recommended moving forward with seven stops. The largest gap between two stations is under a mile, prompting community members at the meeting to inquire about adding more stops to reduce the distance further. Addressing these concerns, Green explained that while additional stops may provide better accessibility, they can also result in longer travel times due to frequent halts. “We’re aiming for a balance,” he noted, ensuring that community feedback will continue to play a vital role as plans evolve.
Southwest Beltline Developments
As for the southwest segment, extending from Murphy Ave to the proposed infill station at Joseph E. Boone Blvd, the team identified six potential stops out of an initial 12 proposals. During the meeting, some attendees questioned why Pittsburgh Yards wasn’t included as a stop, leading Green to explain that elevation changes in that area complicate the logistics of building a ramp system.
Navigating the Northwest Corridor
The northwest corridor presents unique challenges due to the absence of an abandoned railroad track. Green pointed out that planning for this segment requires alternative analysis to connect Bankhead to Lindbergh effectively. The team has explored numerous routes, with some extending towards Atlantic Station, while others remain further north to accommodate the diverse needs of Atlanta’s residents. After reviewing 18 potential options, the team whittled it down to five, focusing on essential connections to jobs and key community centers.
What’s Next?
Looking ahead, the ABI is set to create ridership projections and assess capital costs over the coming months. Green conveyed the importance of community involvement in refining alignments and determining station locations. The goal is to establish a locally preferred alternative by late 2025, facilitating the transition from planning to the design phase.
Throughout the meeting, community collaboration and engagement were highlighted as crucial factors in the continuing development of the Atlanta BeltLine light rail system. Green assured attendees, “We still have a lot of work to do,” expressing eagerness to integrate public feedback into future designs.
As these exciting plans for the Atlanta BeltLine take shape, residents can anticipate a more interconnected community with improved transportation options, significantly enhancing the Atlanta experience. Keep your eyes peeled for more updates, and stay involved in this transformative journey!
