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1/5/2026
Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority's (MARTA) 2026 capital projects include the implementation of four new trainsets and a new fare payment system ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup to be held in June and July.
MARTA is replacing its legacy fleet with new CQ400 rail cars built by Stadler in Salt Lake City. They will feature open gangways with front- and center-facing seats, charging stations and displays with real-time service information. Four train sets are undergoing testing, and multiple sets will be in service by the World Cup, MARTA officials said in a press release on Jan. 1.
A new contactless fare payment system is being installed. The Better Breeze system will replace the current Breeze card payment system and will allow passengers to pay with credit or debit cards or mobile wallets, said MARTA officials. The system can be adjusted and monitored remotely and will reduce incidents of fare evasion, they added. A transition period will run from March 28 to May 2.
As part of a $1 billion systemwide station rehabilitation program, MARTA is renovating the flooring and ceilings at its Five Points Station in Downtown Atlanta. Ahead of the World Cup, MARTA will also prioritize cleanliness, lighting and multilingual wayfinding in subway stations. During the tournament, MARTA will also increase the presence of law enforcement on its subway and bus systems, authority officials said.