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Riding Into the Future: MARTA’s Big Move in Transit

How MARTA is Changing the Game with Innovation and Inclusion—MARTA is making some serious moves!

MARTA is Stepping Up with a New Train Control System

Picture this—trains running smoother, safer, and always on time. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s happening. MARTA just signed a $500 million deal with Stadler to roll out a state-of-the-art train control system. That’s a game-changer for everyone who depends on MARTA to get to work, school, and beyond.

MARTA’s General Manager and CEO, Collie Greenwood, put it best: “This investment will enhance the safety and reliability of our rail network and allow our trains to operate with the highest safety standards, while still being monitored and controlled by skilled MARTA operators.” Translation? More efficient, safer rides for all of us.

This new tech, called CBCT (Communications-Based Train Control), keeps real-time tabs on train positions, making sure everything runs like clockwork. That means fewer delays, fewer unexpected stops, and a much smoother ride.

Markus Bernsteiner, CEO of Stadler Rail, summed it up: “MARTA and its passengers can look forward to a state-of-the-art train control system that will make Metro operations more punctual, safer, and more efficient.” Let’s go!

I Got to See the New MARTA Trains Up Close!

Y’all, I was up at 4:30 AM volunteering for the big unveiling event, working until 8:30 AM, and then I got to check out my volunteer opportunity to see the displayed new train on the rail at 8:30 AM—and let me tell you, it was worth every second! MARTA pulled back the curtain on its brand-new, high-tech trains, and I was right there to witness history.

These aren’t just any trains. We’re talking sleek, modern railcars with open gangways (which means more room for passengers), upgraded lighting, digital displays, phone charging stations, and better safety features. They’re not just an improvement; they’re a whole new vibe for public transit in Atlanta.

And the best part? These new trains will integrate seamlessly with the new CBCT system, so it’s not just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a full transformation of how we experience MARTA.

Shoutout to Stadler Rail for Making It Happen

None of this would be possible without Stadler Rail, a Swiss company known for producing some of the best railcars in the world. These folks have been designing trains for over 80 years, and they know their stuff. With over 13,900 employees across 23 countries, they’re one of the biggest players in the game, and now they’re bringing their expertise to Atlanta.

The new railcars are being built in Salt Lake City, and they’re set to roll out in 2025. This means smoother rides, better reliability, and an overall next-level experience for MARTA riders.

Honoring the Avondale 9: Black History in Transit

With all this talk about the future, we can’t forget the past. As part of Black History Month, MARTA is celebrating the Avondale 9—the first Black railcar technicians who were responsible for launching MARTA’s train service in 1979.

These nine men were pioneers, breaking barriers in an industry that historically lacked diversity. Their work helped lay the foundation for the MARTA system we use today, and it’s important that we recognize and honor their legacy.

Who Were the Avondale 9?

  • Avondale 9 Members: Walter Wilkins, Bobby J. Kenner, Marcus Thomas, Hubert Minor, Ike Bethel Jr., Willie Phillips Jr., James Emerson, William S. Tanks, and Marion H. Parks

They didn’t just help launch the system—they made history. Their legacy continues to inspire future generations of transit professionals and advocates.

Why MARTA is Personal to Me

For years I relied on MARTA—it was my primary way of getting around, handling everything from work commutes to social outings and errands. It gave me the freedom to navigate the city without a car, and I know firsthand how crucial it is for so many in our community. That’s why I believe in the need for MARTA’s expansion. More connections, more service, and continued investment mean a better future for all of us.

—it’s been a lifeline. At 16, I was homeless, and that was when I learned how to navigate the Gwinnett County bus, Cobb County bus, and MARTA. Public transit became my way of surviving, getting to places I needed to be, and ultimately gaining independence. This is why I passionately believe in its expansion and the need for equitable transit.

Public transportation isn’t just about moving people—it’s about opportunity, accessibility, and dignity. Expanding MARTA means connecting more people to jobs, education, healthcare, and a better quality of life.

Final Thoughts: The Future of MARTA is Bright

It’s an exciting time for public transit in Atlanta. The combination of brand-new trains, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to honoring the past while embracing the future makes this a moment worth celebrating.

So next time you hop on a MARTA train, know that you’re riding a system that’s evolving in real-time. Big things are happening, and I can’t wait to see how MARTA continues to grow.

Video Credit: Crystal Hurtado
Leslie Z Ramirez
Leslie Z Ramirezhttp://www.houseoframirez.com
I am a mom and a lover of plants, animals, and people. I have a deep passion for art, music, food, dance, and everything in between that brings people together.
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