Brandon Beach: Transportation Connectivity is "Vital" For Thriving Cities

State Senator Brandon Beach of Alpharetta recently participated in the Metro Region Connectivity Transportation panel during the Council for Quality Growth’s fifth annual Community Improvement Districts (CIDs) Breakfast.

The breakfast and panel took place Wednesday, Nov. 12.

“Transportation is vital for the success of thriving cities,” Beach said. “This is why leaders in the industry must continue to have these discussions to provide easier commutes for both Georgians and visitors and more accessibility to public transportation. We are seeing signs of success with the expansion of MARTA into Clayton and the comradery of the major players in our public transportation system, but we still have a way to go until our fragmented system is resolved. I look forward to ongoing discussions with each regional entity and relevant parties to ensure our state’s transportation sets the standard for transportation initiatives throughout the country.”

Senate Transportation Chairman, Senator Steve Gooch of Dahlonega, MARTA General Manager/CEO Keith Parker and 11th District GDOT Board Member Jeff Lewis were also on the panel. Michael Sullivan, president and CEO of The American Council of Engineering Companies of Georgia (ACEC Georgia), served as the moderator.

The panel discussed the motor fuel tax, the consolidated website (ATLTransit.org) and the expansion of MARTA. Members also discussed possible recommendations coming from the Critical Transportation Infrastructure Funding Joint Study Committee, on which Sen. Beach served throughout the summer.

Photo credit: Georgia General Assembly