The Federal Transit Administration and Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) are advancing a study that could establish Atlanta's first light rail transit (LRT) line along what's called the Clifton Corridor, along a rail line owned by CSX Corp.
The proposed 8.8-mile route would link with MARTA's existing Lindbergh Station through the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) headquarters and Emory University and Emory Hospital campuses to the Avondale MARTA station, according to local media.
The route could succeed, supporters say, because the area it would cover is not served well by MARTA rapid transit or the city's highway system. But area residents fear increased congestion. FTA and MARTA have scheduled two public meetings in December to record public input on potential options.
Atlanta's preparations to open its streetcar line continue, with revenue service still targeted to begin late this year. Last May MARTA agreed to operate the streetcar line, jointly managing it with the city.