3 Questions for Atlanta Councilwoman Overstreet On Transit & Equity

Councilwoman Marci Collier Overstreet at a community work day.

As a member of Atlanta City Council’s Transportation Committee, Marci Collier Overstreet has pushed MARTA to pick up the pace on transit improvements in her district, which includes many transit-dependent constituents. She’s championed a new transit line along Campbellton Road, as well as more connectivity between neighborhoods like Adams Park and Cascade Heights to the Beltline trail. BAT asked her three open-ended questions. The interview has been lightly edited for clarity and length.

1. What are the most important transit and transportation needs for southwest Atlanta?

In my district, we need more public transit options and transit-oriented development participation for our residents, as well as participation in safer ways to get to the main transit system. In recent months, MARTA has proposed investing in both TOD and safer ways to transit. We need these proposals to be realized sooner than proposed.

Many of my constituents, especially the elderly, do not have an automobile. As a result, they need to rely on public transit to live their daily lives – going to and from work, the grocery store or the pharmacy.

Additionally, we need to continue the ongoing effort to pave our roads, fill our potholes, and install and fix our sidewalks.

Finally, the transportation and economic development of the Campbellton Corridor is a top priority of mine. We need to make sure that the promised investment of $317 million is fulfilled to build high-capacity transit and ensure that people can move up and down that important economic and social corridor, the heart of southwest. Again, we need these projects completed sooner than proposed.

2. There is currently a debate about how to spend limited transportation dollars and whether it is wise to build rail on the Beltline and expand the downtown streetcar at this point.  What are your thoughts?

I agree with Mayor Dickens that we need a robust, substantive and public debate about putting rail on the Beltline, expanding the downtown streetcar and, most importantly, how to spend our limited transportation dollars.

We have many transportation needs that require immediate attention and action. I’ve mentioned some of those needs that pertain to my district. But the west side has major challenges too. It is developing extremely quickly without any major transit projects. This is also true for many other parts of the city as well. 

Regarding rail on the Beltline, I suggest we finish the path for the entire loop first.  Then, we can evaluate what kind of transit, if any, should go on the Beltline. Rail may be an option, but I’ve not seen a clear path forward, with many unanswered questions remaining. 

In the meantime, MARTA should undertake reforms, elevate its transparency, and develop a plan of action to improve and expand its services.

I should add that my district does not even connect with the Beltline.  Since 2018, I have asked the Beltline to create a trail to connect the Beltline for my constituents. However, despite repeated promises nothing has been done, not even a Beltline spur to District 11. This is significant because my district spans from John A. White Park all the way to Camp Creek Marketplace. Quite a large district.

3. Are there equity concerns you have in regard to transit and transportation priorities?

Without a doubt, I have equity concerns. In the past, my district and others, especially south of I-20 have had transportation promises and commitments broken – repeatedly. The people in our city must have their voices heard so that we can build equitable transit in our communities.

Access to reliable transportation remains a barrier to employment and a healthy life.  Quite simply, we need to provide transit options for everyone who needs them.

Bottom line: Our public transportation dollars must reflect the priorities of the entire city, especially those disadvantaged neighborhoods and corridors, like Campbellton Connector, which are necessary to help and expand options for those who rely on public transit to move around.