MARTA announced a series of public meetings this month to receive opinions on the possibility of extended services from North Springs to Windward Parkway Alpharetta, according to MARTA’s website.
The meetings are being called Connect 400 because the expansion would take place along the Georgia 400 corridor. Meetings are primarily being held to hear the public’s opinion on the expansion and present alternatives, according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
Current methods of expansion listed are heavy rail extension from North Springs, light rail or a bus line, according to MARTA’s project website. MARTA’s project site also states the possibility of providing light rail on the Atlanta Beltline and expanding the I-20 East and Clifton corridors.
The Atlanta Journal Constitution also states there is no current funding for the expansion, as it is at least 10 years away.
Ato Wobil, Georgia State student, said a rail expansion could be good for the university and students.
“It could connect the downtown campus to the GSU’s one in Alpharetta. Not all students have the luxury of having a car. The additional transportation will provide access to more classes,” he said.
Georgia State student Ann Brown said she believes some of her peers could benefit from the project, but isn’t sure whether it is vital.
“I’ve had class with people who live in Alpharetta that drive down to North Springs MARTA station just to take the train to school. If enough residents aren’t expressing a need for it though, an expansion isn’t necessary,” said Brown.
MARTA’s next meeting will be July 10 at the Georgia State Alpharetta Center from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.,according to MARTA’s website. The last meeting is July 17 at Hampton Inn Atlanta – Perimeter Center from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
