SELC helps pave the way for historic expansion of Atlanta public transit

With the help of SELC and a coalition of transportation, environmental, and social equity groups, this week’s inaugural launch of bus service for Clayton County marks the first time in over 40 years that a new county has joined MARTA, metro Atlanta’s mass transit provider. 

Clayton County residents now have access to reliable public transportation through the approval of a one-cent sales tax increase in the November general election. Limited bus service started this week and full bus service is expected by fall 2016. 

SELC organized strategy meetings with local advocacy groups and MARTA staff leading up to the Clayton County Commission’s vote to approve the sales tax increase, and helped to interpret the contract between Clayton County and MARTA officials. 

Based on the efforts of our coalition and partner groups, seventy-four percent of Clayton County voters approved the sales tax increase. This historic expansion comes at a critical time as the debate for more access to public transit options in Atlanta continues at the legislature. 

Local coverage of the expansion is available here.