MARTA drafts new rider conduct policy

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority's (MARTA) board on Monday approved a new code-of-conduct policy that will take effect Nov. 9 for system riders.

The "Ride With Respect" policy will address "nuisance behaviors" by assessing penalties that include possible suspension from the transit system, MARTA officials said in a press release.

The policy was drafted in response to concerns from existing and potential MARTA customers. Agency officials wrote the policy after receiving input from community members and other MARTA stakeholders.

The new policy prohibits activities such as solicitations, selling goods or services, loud music, spitting, littering, eating on transit vehicles, drinking on vehicles without re-sealable containers, fighting and disruptive behavior.

"Moving forward, MARTA will no longer tolerate bad behavior on our system," said Chairman Frederick Daniels Jr.

The policy — combined with a more robust police presence, new vehicle security cameras and a mobile app for reporting problems — will help make MARTA a more attractive travel option, said General Manager/Chief Executive Officer Keith Parker.

"You should have the freedom to sit quietly and enjoy a peaceful ride on MARTA," he said.