The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is advancing its NextGen Bus Network, a strategic redesign of MARTA bus routes to create a smarter, faster, and better system to serve evolving needs in the region.

Beginning in December, and continuing through early February 2025, MARTA will host a series of virtual and in-person meetings to gather feedback about the proposed bus network changes.

“This redesign of our bus network represents a generational shift in our service to better align with the region’s dynamic growth, changing commute patterns, and post-pandemic realities of public transit use,” said MARTA General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood. “We are eager to share the proposed bus network with our customers and stakeholders and hear feedback on opportunities to refine.”

The NextGen Bus Network reflects MARTA’s long-term vision for a more equitable and efficient transit system that prioritizes access to jobs, education, essential services, and stronger community connections. Key proposed service enhancements include increased frequent service routes, enhanced job accessibility, and new, on-demand service zones that meet the diverse needs of lower-density areas

The redesign is proposing to:

• Expand frequent service areas from 5 corridors to 18, making it easier for riders to reach their destinations.

• Increase 20-minute service routes from nine existing routes to 13 planned routes for shorter wait times and quicker trips.

• Add 12 new on-demand service zones, offering flexible transit solutions for communities with lower population density.

• Provide seven-day-a-week service on all routes and on-demand zones, eliminating peak-only service hours to meet riders’ diverse schedules.

• Streamline fixed bus routes from 113 to 79 to create a simpler and more navigable network with minimal impact on current service areas.

• Provide greater accessibility for residents and workers, with 95,000 more people and 103,000 additional jobs within close reach of frequent transit service that runs every 15 minutes or better.

• Provide 143,200 more residents with access to service running every 30 minutes or better.