MARTA readies for rail expansion project, seeks public comment

As the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) lays the groundwork for a heavy-rail expansion project of its Red Line, it's continuing to seek public comment on the proposal through a series of hearings this month.

To proceed with the project, the agency has filed a formal Notice of Intent for an Environmental Impact Statement, as required by the Federal Transit Administration and the U.S. Department of Transportation, MARTA officials said. In addition, the agency has already held over 40 meetings to determine the best way to expand its Red Line service.

The expansion is aimed at reducing traffic congestion and travel times along the Georgia 400 corridor, MARTA officials said. It would continue north from the North Springs Station and terminate at Windward Parkway.

The hearings will take place on April 14, 16 and 30, and MARTA will continue accepting feedback on the project until May 11.