Atlanta — City Takes Over Operation

June 2017

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed says the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority [MARTA] will be taking over operation of the city's 2.7-mile downtown modern streetcar line, according to WXIA television.

"The city is funding MARTA's expansion, the largest expansion in its history, to the tune of $2.6 billion dollars. That referendum was passed with 70% voter support," Mayor Reed said. 

"So, as a part of that process the streetcar system is being absorbed into MARTA as a part of the $2.6 billion expansion. So we're excited about it."

Mayor Reed said that no schedule has been set as to when the streetcar line will be extended, most likely toward the Beltline.

"We've had 1.5 million riders and within a five minute walk of the Atlanta streetcar we've had more than $2 million dollars in new construction," Mayor Reed said. "So I think the streetcar, long-term, is going to be a great investment."

The Mayor also said he hopes the streetcar will be able to offer free fares again.