Community Corner
Southwest Area Commuters Unhappy with Proposed MARTA Fare Hike
A proposed increase in fares by MARTA is not sitting well with commuters in Southwest Atlanta.
Atlanta MARTA commuters interviewed by Cascade Patch recently said they are disappointed to learn of the proposed fare hike that could take effect on October 2.
Under the plan, MARTA would raise the cost of a regular one-way ticket from $2.00 to $2.50, according to an April 28 press release from the transportation agency. The last increase in took place in 2009 when fares went from $1.75 to $2.
Speaking at the West Lake and Hamilton Holmes MARTA stations, the majority of commuters interviewed voiced concerns over the untimely increase in fares, just as gas prices are on the rise.
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Several riders also felt that a higher fare should equal a higher level of customer service.
"I don't think they should do it," said Marvin Browley, a West Lake rider. "I usually take the train because it's cheaper but now gas done went up so high, with a raise it looks like ain't nothing going right."
Find out what's happening in Cascadewith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Citizens can view copies of the proposed 2012 MARTA budget along with fare changes on the MARTA website, www.itsmarta.com or by visiting MARTA's Office of External Affairs during regular business hours. Commuters can also voice their opinion and receive information on upcoming changes by leaving a message on MARTA's comment line, 404-848-5299.
MARTA will host public hearings on the proposal on the following dates, times and locations:
May 16, 7 p.m. - South Fulton Service Center at 5600 Stonewall Tell Road in College Park
May 16, 7 p.m. - Fulton County Government Center at 141 Pryor Street, in Atlanta
May 17, 7 p.m. - DeKalb Maloof Auditorium at 1300 Commerce Drive in Decatur
May 17, 7 p.m. - North Fulton Service Center, 7741 Roswell Road in Sandy Springs