DeKalb Working On New Transit Plan

DECATUR, GA — A master plan that could rework mass transit in DeKalb County is working its way toward becoming a reality.

DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond said Monday that county officials are working with the Atlanta Regional Commission and MARTA on the plan, which is expected to be completed next year.

"The Transit Master Plan will identify fiscally sensible transit improvements that address the mobility needs of all of our residents," Thurmond said in a news release. "DeKalb County is poised to lead the region into the next frontier of transit implementation and plans to enhance the county’s robust network of transportation options."

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The release said the plan "will address the county’s mobility challenges, help to enhance future development opportunities, and improve the quality of life within each of DeKalb’s cities and unincorporated communities, both north and south."

Local leaders said helping craft the plan is a way for residents to help shape DeKalb's future.

"The City of Decatur is certainly not alone in its excitement to work hand-in-hand with DeKalb County, the other municipalities, and the study partners on the Transit Master Plan,: said Decatur Mayor Patti Garrett. "Our residents are eager for the opportunity to join the community conversation about transit and contribute to the county-wide plan."

DeKalb County is one of 13 counties within the the newly formed Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (or The ATL). The agency, created by the state legislature this year, is charged with coordinating existing and future transit service for the region.

In approving the new region, Gov. Nathan Deal also signed off on a plan to allot $100 million in next year's budget to fund public transit in the area.

Under the legislation, public transit could be funded by new, one-percent local-option sales taxes for up to 30 years. The 13-county region under the plan is made up of Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Coweta, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale counties.

In DeKalb, two public meetings were held in March to gather community input on transportation issues. More are scheduled for October and March and May in 2019.

For information about the DeKalb County Transit Master Plan, residents may visit its website or contact Beverly Kimmons at 404-684-7031 or bkimmons@tcfatl.com.

Photo courtesy Metro Atlanta Transit Authority