Advocacy Group Fights for BeltLine Rail in Atlanta
The contentious future of Atlanta’s BeltLine, a 22-mile path curving through the city, has various advocacy groups voicing their stance on the proposed development of a light rail system to navigate the trail. BeltLine Rail Now!, a volunteer advocacy group, continues to intensify its push for the initiation of the ambitious rail plan, set to commence construction in 2025.
The Need for Light Rail
This proposal, a blueprint for the trail’s original design, envisions a light rail moving alongside pedestrians and cyclists. Critics argue against the potential congestion a streetcar might introduce to the busy city pathway. Despite this, BeltLine Rail Now refuses to relent in its quest for the realization of the project.
On July 10, the group hosted the first of a possible series of virtual panels over Zoom. The webinar featured Phil Veaseley, a data engineer specializing in multimodal transportation, Carden Wyckoff, a dedicated advocate for Atlanta’s disabled, and Joel Dixon, co-principal of Urban Oasis Development. All three are strong advocates for the Atlanta Streetcar East Extension, a move they believe will bring 22-miles of light rail to the BeltLine corridor.
Advantages of Light Rail
Surely enough, BeltLine rail supporters assert that the light rail would prove particularly beneficial amidst Atlanta’s intense summer heat and frequent rainfall. Phil Veaseley, an engineer and bike commuter, says, “If I get caught in a storm and I’m trying to get home from work, it would just be a game-changer for being another option to get around.” Additionally, light rail will significantly speed up transit, making commuting safer and more inclusive, says Joel Dixon.
Urban Oasis Development, where Dixon functions as co-principal, has taken on the responsibility of developing a transit-based community at Murphy Crossing. This initiative aims to include affordable housing and commercial spaces, marking an important stride towards a transit-forward Atlanta. Dixon underscores that the key to achieving an equitably inclusive housing system lies in creating structures around transit and different forms of mobility.
Concerns About Equity
Critics contend that the planned streetcar extension, running nearly a mile down Edgewood Avenue to link the Eastside Trail up to Ponce City Market, is unfairly benefitting wealthier areas. Some suggest focusing on poorer areas that are inaccessible, like South Atlanta and Bowen Homes. Refuting this, BeltLine rail advocates maintain that the streetcar will be beneficial to all, particularly those who depend heavily on transit to access services and jobs.
However, as Dixon stresses, it is vital for the full BeltLine Rail to be constructed to achieve truly equitable transit. Removing the BeltLine rail translates into fewer people utilizing MARTA stations to navigate the city.
Moving Forward
While the fate of the BeltLine Rail project hangs in the balance, BeltLine Rail Now continues to rally support for its construction. Despite the setbacks, the group remains committed to progressing the project, firmly stating that it is essential to initiate the first segment to shift the focus to future plans on the loop.
