Image Description: The above image shows the staging of the new south pedestrian bridge in the south parking lot at East Lake after delivery. The bridge sits on top of support beams as crew members secure the top and side. The sun sets in the background.
RIDER ALERT
The south pedestrian bridge replacement requires the closure of the south parking lot beginning Monday, March 2, 2026, and the closure of the south entrance and pedestrian bridge beginning Monday, March 9, 2026.
The closure of the south parking lot and entrance will last approximately two months.
Starting Monday, March 2: South Parking Lot Closes
Starting Monday, March 9: South Entrance Closes
Buses: All routes currently operating from the south side will be rerouted to the north side (Routes 2, 19, and 34). After the Bus Network Redesign launches on April 18, 2026, only Route 34 will continue serving East Lake Station. Details are available at itsmarta.com/nextgen2.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON SOUTH ENTRANCE CLOSURE FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT
The south pedestrian bridge spans both College Avenue and active freight rail lines, making this phase more complex than the previous north bridge replacement. While there were early delays due to weather and coordination with freight rail partners, crews continued to make steady progress to prepare the south bridge for installation. Because of this, the South Bridge closure will be shorter in duration than the previous bridge closure, minimizing customer impact.
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Current Status
Construction.
Construction for the replacement of south bridge begins in March 2026. Estimated completion is May 2026.
Construction on the north side of East Lake Station is complete. The new north bridge and new north elevator have opened, making the north entrance fully ADA accessible.
Overview
East Lake Station opened in 1979 and is one of the first stations being renovated under MARTA’s Station Rehabilitation Program. Renovations include a new pedestrian bridge and new elevator on the north side along with a new pedestrian bridge on the south side.
Project Features:
Parking lot improvements with resurfacing, striping, ADA improvements, light poles, and surveillance cameras
Image Description: An interior image of the new north elevator. The interior of the cab has floor to ceiling windows allowing sunlight to stream in along with new doors and railing.
ACCESSIBILITY MILESTONE: ADDITION OF NORTH ELEVATOR
East Lake opened in 1979 without an elevator on the north side, which was a major impediment to our customers with limited mobility. Forty-six years later, we're proud to announce an important milestone in accessibility to MARTA with the opening of a new elevator. This new elevator enhances accessibility by providing elevator access on both the north and south sides of the station, improving access for all riders.
Benefits of the new north elevator:
- Increased Transit Equity– Expands access to public transportation for all riders, including seniors, parents with strollers, and those carrying luggage.
- Enhanced Convenience & Safety – Reduces travel time for riders coming from the north side while providing a safer, weather-protected alternative to stairs.
- Better Traffic Flow & Reduced Congestion – Helps balance foot traffic between both entrances, preventing bottlenecks and improving station efficiency.
- Supports Future Upgrades – Allows for critical renovations on the south side while ensuring uninterrupted station and elevator access.
Image description: A member of the construction crew stands on a ladder inside of the new north pedestrian bridge installing signage. The bridge is complete with new flooring, handrails, ceiling, and lighting.
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Please submit comments or questions regarding the project to:
Antario Williams
Senior Project Manager
awilliams7@itsmarta.com