Atlanta has launched its new automated shuttle service, ATL Spoke, which connects the BeltLine Southwest Trail with MARTA Rail. The 12-month pilot program, which began on June 5, offers free rides to up to 12 passengers per shuttle. The shuttles run daily from noon to 10:00 p.m. on most days, with extended hours on World Cup days.
Service Details
The shuttles, controlled by autonomous mobility services provider Beep’s control centers, use autonomous vehicle software developed by Adastec. Each shuttle will have a shuttle attendant on board to answer questions and take over in the event of an emergency. The two-mile pilot route includes stops at MARTA West End Station, Joseph E. Lowery Blvd at Beecher Street, and two stops within the Lee+White district.
The introduction of the automated shuttle service comes as the city prepares for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, with Atlanta being one of the host cities. The service is expected to complement existing MARTA service and improve the linkage between MARTA rail and the BeltLine.
BeltLine Rail Debate
The launch of the automated shuttle service also coincides with the ongoing debate about the BeltLine rail. CEO Alex Taylor of Cox Enterprises recently published an op-ed criticizing the idea of BeltLine rail, which was met with pushback from supporters of the idea. Mayor Dickens has previously supported BeltLine rail but has since reversed his stance on the issue.
Original reporting: SaportaReport — read the source article.
