Martas safe routes to transit (SR2T) program is an initiative for the authority to identify and improve the first- and last mile connection to transit by filling the existing need for safer and more…

The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) awarded MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) $5.2 million under the Community Project Funding Congressionally Directed Spending program (CFDA 20.534) on September 18, 2025, to implement the Safe Routes to Transit (SR2T) Program. This congressionally designated grant supports final design and construction activities to improve first- and last-mile pedestrian connections to MARTA bus stops throughout the Atlanta metropolitan area. The project will deliver a comprehensive suite of pedestrian infrastructure improvements including high-visibility crosswalks, curb extensions, medians, refuge islands, rectangular rapid flash beacons, pedestrian hybrid beacons, sidewalks, curb ramps, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility features at prioritized bus stop locations identified through a developed methodology and scoring system.

The initiative directly addresses existing gaps in pedestrian infrastructure and accessibility barriers that limit transit access for MARTA patrons, particularly elderly individuals and those with disabilities. Expected outcomes include enhanced safety and accessibility at bus stop locations, improved pedestrian access to the greater Atlanta community, and expanded economic opportunities through increased transit connectivity. The project completion date is March 30, 2034, and no subrecipient activities are funded under this award. As a congressionally directed spending allocation, the grant was not subject to competitive application but was specifically identified in the applicable annual appropriations legislation.

Activities

Final design and construction to support the implementation of the SR2T program. The improvements to be delivered include a mix of high visibility crosswalks signage curb extensions medians and refuge islands rectangular rapid flash and pedestrian hybrid beacons and installation of sidewalks curb ramps and other ADA accessibility features.

Expected outcomes

Challenges like missing sidewalks or unsafe crossings can create barriers to mobility for metro atlantans. Martas safe routes to transit program is an opportunity for the authority and its member jurisdictions to improve the first- and last mile connection to transit by filling the existing need for safer and more accessible pedestrian infrastructure at sites that lack adequate pedestrian infrastructure.

Intended beneficiaries

Implementing the proposed improvements for pedestrian access to marta bus stops benefits a wide range of individuals and the community. This includes marta patrons and pedestrians especially the elderly and those with disabilities as well as provides safer more accessible access to bus stop locations increasing their access to the greater community and economic opportunity.

Subrecipient activities

Not applicable - no subrecipient activities to be funded under this award.