Kendall Murry
,
Julien Virgin
| WABE
March 26th, 2024
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens on Monday announced his proposal for a new MARTA rail station that will offer riders access to the BeltLine, one of many moves intended to promote easier transportation and accessibility throughout the city.
The news came during Dickens’ State of the City address, where he vowed to “close the tale of two cities” within Atlanta.
The proposed station is part of a redevelopment project at southwest Atlanta’s Murphy Crossing, a mixed-use development planned for construction in the Oakland City area.
“To create healthy, thriving neighborhoods, we must build a transportation system that is accessible to residents across the city,” said Dickens. “A better, more accessible rail system is key to Atlanta’s future and I am committed to ensuring that Atlanta residents have access to the quality transportation they deserve.”
If the plans move forward, the station will be the first heavy rail addition to the MARTA line since 2000, when the North Springs station was built on the transit’s northbound line.
Dickens also announced plans for three new additional infill stations in the city at locations to be determined.
The MARTA partnership was one of several initiatives addressed by Dickens in Monday’s speech related to redevelopment throughout the city.
Dickens said the groundbreaking of The John A. White Golf and Senior Center will take place in the next couple of months.
And he revealed plans to open a grocery store with fresh food and produce on the southside to provide healthier options for residents who live in food deserts.
“Atlanta only reaches its full potential and becomes a city of opportunity for all when we have a network of safe, healthy and thriving neighborhoods,” he said. “We can and must invest deeply in our people. Because in our increasingly interconnected world, it is undeniable that what happens in your neighborhood impacts mine.”
Dickens said that under his leadership, more affordable housing has been created, more than 23,000 potholes have been filled, and over 5,000 people aged 14-24 have benefited from the city’s summer youth employment program. He also reinforced his support for the controversial Atlanta Public Safety Training Center — set to open by year’s end.
Dickens has confirmed that he will seek reelection in 2025.
