The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) Rapid A-Line, the Atlanta region’s first bus rapid transit (BRT) line, will launch in two phases, with the first phase beginning April 18, as part of the NextGen Bus Network, the agency announced.

MARTA’s Rapid A-Line

The five-mile Rapid A-Line connects Downtown Atlanta to Capitol Gateway, Summerhill, Peoplestown, and the Beltline’s Southside Trail, with connections to MARTA’s heavy rail system at Five Points, Georgia State, and Garnett Stations.

Since its groundbreaking, the project has faced challenges, including the discovery of existing infrastructure during excavation and a recall of batteries in the battery-electric buses purchased to operate on the line. These unforeseen circumstances have delayed completion of all 14 BRT stations and may require supplemental vehicles to provide initial service, according to MARTA.

Setting up Phase 2

Phase 2 of the launch is scheduled for fall, when all BRT stations are complete.

The BRT stations feature offboard fare payment via the new, improved Breeze system, real-time service information, level boarding, and other amenities typically found at rail stations.