MARTA 2024 Budget Rail Focus

n the FY24 operating budget, MARTA's rail service takes a prominent position, highlighting the agency's commitment to maintaining and improving passenger rail operations in the Southeastern region. The budget underscores the importance of providing efficient, reliable, and high-quality rail transportation options to commuters and residents.

MARTA's rail service is projected to operate 22.7 million revenue car miles and 854,000 revenue car hours over 47.6 miles of double tracks, connecting 38 rail stations. This extensive network plays a crucial role in facilitating regional mobility, reducing congestion, and providing a sustainable transportation alternative.

To support the rail operations, the capital budget includes several significant projects aimed at enhancing the rail system's state of good repair (SGR). These projects prioritize critical infrastructure improvements, technological advancements, and passenger-centric enhancements.

The top-ranking project in terms of required funding is the acquisition of New CQ 400 Railcars, with a budget allocation of $60.0 million. This project focuses on replacing aging railcars with modern and energy-efficient models that increase passenger capacity and enhance overall comfort. By investing in new railcars, MARTA aims to improve the reliability and quality of the rail service, ensuring a pleasant experience for passengers.

Rail Station Rehabilitation is another key project highlighted in the budget, with a budget allocation of $50.0 million. This initiative aims to enhance the condition and functionality of rail stations across the MARTA network. Upgrades may include improvements to station facilities, accessibility enhancements, and the addition of amenities. By creating more comfortable and user-friendly environments, MARTA seeks to improve the overall passenger experience and encourage greater ridership.

Track Renovation Phase IV is a project that addresses the critical need for track rehabilitation. With a budget of $29.0 million, this initiative aims to upgrade and rehabilitate rail tracks to ensure smooth and safe train operations. By addressing track deterioration and enhancing the overall track infrastructure, MARTA aims to maintain high operational standards and minimize disruptions for passengers. This investment in track renovation supports the agency's commitment to providing reliable and punctual rail services.

The Capital Program Management Office's State of Good Repair (CPMO - SGR) project, with a budget of $24.0 million, focuses on various SGR initiatives aimed at improving the overall condition and reliability of the rail system. This project encompasses a range of maintenance and improvement activities, such as upgrading signals, switches, and electrical systems. By prioritizing these essential components, MARTA aims to enhance the safety and efficiency of the rail service.

Escalator Rehabilitation is another noteworthy project in the rail-focused budget, with a budget allocation of $14.4 million. This initiative aims to improve the condition and functionality of escalators across MARTA's rail stations. By rehabilitating and maintaining escalators, MARTA ensures passenger safety and convenience, minimizing downtime and disruptions caused by escalator malfunctions.

Comprehensive Fare Collection is a project that underscores MARTA's commitment to modernizing the fare collection system. With a budget allocation of $10.1 million, this initiative focuses on implementing advanced fare collection technologies and enhancing the overall fare payment experience for passengers. By streamlining the fare collection process, MARTA aims to improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

In addition to these projects, the rail-focused budget includes investments in environmental, safety, and health initiatives, radio system upgrades, and the construction of a multipurpose O&M facility. These projects collectively contribute to the overall improvement of MARTA's rail service, ensuring passenger safety, system reliability, and operational efficiency.

The funding for these rail-focused projects comes from various sources, including prior year carry-forward funds, capital sales tax, federal and state funds, interest income, and debt issuance. MARTA's commitment to securing adequate funding for rail improvements demonstrates its dedication to maintaining and enhancing the