Extension of Rail System Along East Side of Interstate 20

This is a request from the Georgia House of Representatives for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) to keep its promise to make the train system bigger so it goes along the east side of Interstate 20 in South DeKalb County.

• Georgia House of Representatives: A group of elected leaders who help make state laws for Georgia.

• MARTA: A system in Georgia with buses and trains that help people get around the Atlanta area.

• Interstate 20: A big highway that goes east and west across Georgia, connecting cities like Atlanta and Augusta.

People in South DeKalb County have been paying a small sales tax to support MARTA operations and improvements since 1972, but there hasn’t been any train expansion in South DeKalb County, even though MARTA has added train stations in other places.

• Because of this, people living in South DeKalb County have limited access to MARTA trains.

Right now, the train ends at Indian Creek Station. An agreement called “The Rapid Transit Contract Agreement” highlights the goal to put heavy rail from Indian Creek Station to Stonecrest Mall.

Back in April 2012, the MARTA board gave the green light for trains to be added along Interstate 285 South and east along Interstate 20 to Stonecrest Mall.

• Interstate 285 South: A highway that goes around Atlanta, letting cars and trucks drive around the city instead of through it.

Adding the MARTA train along Interstate 20 would make it possible for gathering spaces, like businesses and parks, to be in that area because people could go there on the train.

This request from The House of Representatives shows support for the added train and wants to make sure MARTA is still going to make it happen.

• Members of the House of Representatives are encouraging leaders in DeKalb County and MARTA to work together on a transportation plan that will serve many people, that includes different options going to Stonecrest.

The Clerk of the House of Representatives can share copies of this request with people in the government who need to see it.