Comments on: Georgia losing millions by not moving on commuter rail

By: Ben

Ben — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 18:59:47 +0000

I think what Georgia needs is better and more frequent Amtrak service, not a commuter rail to Griffin. I have lived in Georgia almost my entire life (and part of that in Atlanta) and have never heard of Griffin. We need a train between Athens and Atlanta more than anything! At least half the students at UGA are from Atlanta!

By: Jock Ellis

Jock Ellis — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 15:32:49 +0000

If we ever have another reform governor like Jimmy Carter, he/she should re-name the State Highway Department the Bureau of Unfinished Road Projects (BURP).

By: A.W.

A.W. — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 00:12:53 +0000

I think that it would be a great idea to extend the MARTA Rail System southbound past the Airport, through Lovejoy, down to Griffin, and end at the Atlanta Motor Speedway. The traffic on I-75 in Clayton and Henry counties are crazy in the afternoon. In my opinion, the whole south metro of Atlanta needs some new life and renovation, put more tourist attractions in those areas. But that is another story. The problem is that the government is not really financially supporting MARTA. If so, we probably would not be having this conversation right now.

By: Richard E. Hodges

Richard E. Hodges — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:54:37 +0000

Thanks again to Maria Saporta for highlighting the continued lack of transportation vision and action by many of Georgia’s so-called leaders. After watching our state’s basic march forward economically, politically, and socially for more than 50 years, this observer, and occasional participant, is sad to see our wonderful state apparently head for the drain due to lack of courage, energy, and concern for the future by many who were elected to represent and lead. Good for Congressman Scott and Eldrin Bell for their recognition of the importance of commuter rail if metro Atlanta and environs are to continue as great places to live and work.

By: Roger C.

Roger C. — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:14:08 +0000

It is unfortunate that this state is about to surrender millions of federal dollars simply because state leadership will not move on a project that was supposed to be completed in 2002. I think part of the problem is that the first phase of the line ends in Lovejoy. The DOT and GRTA and others involved need to think bigger and build the first phase to Griffin, then one year later, extend to Macon. There has been enough time to take baby steps. It is time to move this project forward!