Image description: This image shows a color-coded site plan outlining proposed land uses including commercial areas, hotels, multifamily housing, townhomes, mixed housing, and landscaped improvements along Riverdale Road between Forest Parkway and Norman Drive. Pedestrian connection icons and major roads are also visible throughout the outlined project area.  

Current Status 

In progress. 

Project Overview 

The Southlake TOD Study is an FTA-funded planning effort led by MARTA to help guide future growth and investment along the Southlake Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor in Clayton County. This project focuses on how new transit services can support vibrant, connected, and resilient communities. The study includes strategies for economic development, resiliency, and planning around station areas. The study is scheduled for completion in  2026. 

Stakeholders and local leaders participated in walking audits and a bus tour in May 2025 to identify barriers to pedestrian and cyclist mobility along the corridor. Their input helped the study assess multi-modal safety and identify ways to improve streetscapes, connectivity, and multimodal travel to enhance the rider experience and support Bus Rapid Transit ridership. 

Station Area Planning 
The final phase of the Southlake TOD study included a series of conversations with station-area working groups made up of representatives from the Clayton County Office of Economic Development, city and county planning departments, transportation department, community development, public works, and various other agencies. Station area plans include recommendations for land use, economic development, open space design, and stormwater management recommendations. 

Market Analysis and Development Strategy 
The analysis examines housing, jobs, retail, and industry trends along the corridor and identifies opportunities for new development and redevelopment. The project team engaged stakeholders, including community representatives, nonprofit organizations, and real estate professionals to inform this study. 

Corridor Resilience Strategy 

In partnership with Clayton County’s Office of Sustainability, Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), the Flint River Bridge Project Team, and a variety of community leaders, engineers, and environmental scientists, MARTA is considering strategies that will make the corridor more resilient to flooding and extreme heat. 

Stay Informed   

Sidney Douse 
Director of Policy Planning  
sdouse@itsmarta.com