What is the ATL?
The Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (ATL) is a regional transit governance and funding structure created when Governor Nathan Deal signed HB930 into law on May 3, 2018. It’s focused on improving coordination, integration and efficiency of transit in metro Atlanta. A regional transit plan encompassing all transit projects and initiatives will be developed, containing access to new funding sources for activities within it.
What does the ATL stand for?
The ATL is an acronym for the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority.
Who makes up the ATL?
The ATL is governed by a 16-member board comprised of metro Atlanta business leaders and government officials. Learn more about the
ATL board here.
The ATL was created by the Georgia General Assembly during the 2018 legislative session to provide coordinated transit planning and funding for the metro Atlanta region. The ATL is responsible for developing the ATL Regional Transit Plan, as well as identifying and prioritizing the projects and initiatives required to develop region-wide transit. The ATL is also charged with creating a unified regional transit system brand. Effective July 1, 2020, the ATL was legislatively authorized to oversee the state’s Xpress regional commuter transit system and the Atlanta region’s vanpool system. The population of metro Atlanta is growing rapidly and projected to add an additional 2.5 million residents by 2040. The ATL is a critical step towards more efficient and effective transit and mobility in the region. For more information on Xpress and the ATL, visit https://atltransit.wpengine.com/ and follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
What counties are included?
The ATL has been tasked specifically to develop a regional transit plan for a 13-county area; Cherokee, Clayton, Coweta, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, Paulding and Rockdale counties.
What about funding?
The ATL will oversee federal and state transit funds in the region. Counties within the ATL can hold a referendum to raise an additional sales tax of up to 1 percent for up to 30 years. The ATL can issue its own bonds and can work with other state agencies to issue bonds.
What will happen to MARTA and other existing transit systems?
The ATL will work closely with all existing and future transit systems. Current providers have their operational and funding autonomy preserved. MARTA will remain responsible for operating the region’s heavy rail system, including any new heavy rail projects.
Will the ATL affect other transportation improvements like the proposed express lanes?
No, transit is just one piece of the region’s larger transportation plan.
How do I file a discrimination complaint?
Any person who believes that he or she has been subjected to discrimination or retaliation based on their race, color, or national origin may file a Title VI complaint. Complaints may be filed directly with the ATL or the Federal Funding Agency. Complaints must be filed in writing and signed by the complainant or a representative and should include the complainant’s name, address, and telephone number or other means by which the complainant can be contacted. Access the
complaint form.
