Current status
Beginning 60% design.
Project Overview
The Buford Highway Arterial Rapid Transit (ART) project will bring higher-frequency and more reliable service to what is already MARTA’s busiest bus route.
Three key features distinguish ART bus service from regular local bus service:
- Transit Signal Priority (TSP): ART buses operate in the same lanes as other traffic, but TSP prioritizes approaching buses at key intersections to allow them to move faster and stay on time. Buses arrive approximately every 15-20 minutes.
- Enhanced shelters: Larger shelters feature better lighting, real-time arrival information, and seating.
- Limited stop service: The service is designed to save time and improve rider experience by having fewer stops than a local route.
This 10-mile ART route will follow the existing Route 39 from Lindbergh Center rail station in the south to Doraville rail station to the north. More than 5,000 customers a day already ride Route 39. By providing more frequent service in this corridor, MARTA estimates the ART will lead to 7% more people choosing transit. The corridor has a high number of residents who could especially benefit from better transit. For example, about 3 in 10 households are low-income, roughly 1 in 8 don't have a vehicle, and nearly 1 in 5 have limited English proficiency
This project is included in DeKalb County’s Comprehensive Transportation Plan, which is part of the larger DeKalb County 2050 Unified Plan.
The project also delivers on a commitment MARTA and DeKalb County made in the 15th Amendment to the Rapid Transit Contract and Assistance Agreement (RTCAA).
MARTA is starting the final design phase for Buford Highway, moving through several design milestones before starting construction. Because Buford Highway is a state route, MARTA and GDOT will work together on any changes to the roadway, especially in relation to programming the traffic signals to facilitate bus operations.
Additional opportunities for public input will be available during the final design phase.
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Project Map
Image Description: The map above shows the proposed ART route with stops. The proposed route extends across Fulton and DeKalb counties from Lindbergh Center Station in the south to Doraville Station in the north.
Presentations
June 8, 2023 Buford Highway ART Public Meeting - YouTube
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Please submit comments regarding the project via email to:
Jonathan Barnett
Project Manager II
bufordhighway@itsmarta.com