MARTA providing extra services in wake of I-85 bridge collapse
Motorists affected by the I-85 bridge collapse in midtown Atlanta can use MARTA as an option as the agency will provide more services for people to a city dealing with what Atlanta Mayor Kaseem Reed said is a worse-case traffic scenario.
“MARTA is providing additional services to accommodate the expected influx of passengers needing to navigate traffic congestion and delays,” the agency said in a statement. “MARTA is increasing rail services to assist travelers during this time. Additional representatives are on hand to assist passengers as needed. MARTA continues to work closely with our state and local partners to ensure that residents and visitors can safely reach their destinations.”
A portion of I-85 Northbound near Piedmont Road collapsed March 30 due to a massive fire under the bridge. All lanes on the interstate are closed, including the portion from Chamblee-Tucker Road to North Druid Hills Road.
Brookhaven officials said the city is coordinating with the Georgia Department of Transportation to address traffic issues.
“As it pertains to traffic in Brookhaven, the Regional Traffic Operations Program is implementing longer throughput traffic signal cycles on Buford Highway and Peachtree Road,” the city said in a statement. “Both roads are state routes. This may cause delays in Brookhaven neighborhoods that directly access these roads.”
Brookhaven Mayor John Ernst, City Manager Christian Sigman and Brookhaven officials are in contact with the Georgia, DeKalb County and neighboring cities as needed as information develops regarding traffic plans.
“People should minimize their commutes today and take MARTA if possible,” Ernst said. “Brookhaven remains open for business as we continue our local response to the regional impact of this disaster.”
