MARTA to clarify eating, drinking restrictions

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) will begin posting and distributing communications materials reminding customers that, while a new state law allows eating and drinking in its rail and intermodal stations, the consumption of food on MARTA trains and buses is still prohibited.

Since a new law went into effect on July 1, 2009, lifting the ban on eating and drinking in MARTA rail and intermodal stations, the authority has experienced increased incidents of patrons eating and drinking on its vehicles. Officials say the restrictions remain in place for safety reasons and to control maintenance costs associated with the consumption of food on its buses and trains. 

"We know it can be a bit confusing for our customers to understand what is permitted and what's not when riding the system, so we are working to get information posted that will help them clearly understand what this new law allows," said MARTA GM/CEO, Dr. Beverly A. Scott.

Along with the prohibition of food consumption on MARTA buses and trains, customers also cannot bring food on MARTA vehicles unless it is in a closed container, or consume beverages on MARTA vehicles unless the beverage is in a re-sealable plastic container. Re-sealable is defined as a top that, when securely placed on a container, prevents spillage or leakage.