MARTA: From Good To Great

Despite the chill in the air, MARTA officials and supporters were warmed by the good news at last week’s (Wed., Jan. 7) State of MARTA breakfast.

General Manager Keith Parker talked about the ongoing process of transforming the system from good to great and called 2014 a banner year. “This is like a shareholders’ meeting,” he said. “This is your system.”

Among the highlights: fiscal stability, increased ridership, improved customer service, no fare increase, improved safety, upgraded bond ratings, employee raises and a vote from Clayton County residents to expand the system into their county.

At the end of the first quarter of FY 2015, Parker said, MARTA had $9.5 million more than its budgeted expenses, which he attributes to more riders and a successful program to curb fare evasions.

Special guests at the breakfast were three MARTA officers who, as part of that program, stopped a fare evader who turned out to be a suspected serial killer. The officers got an enthusiastic standing ovation. 

– Susan Percy