MARTA: SO FAR SO GOOD

This describes the MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), and notes that although the transit system serves only a limited part of a growing metropolitan region, it is considered a successful system. It provides dependable, inexpensive transportation for 180,000 people a day while reducing the congestion and pollution of thousands of cars. The rail system which has shaped the city's development and promoted growth round its stations, promises to do more as it extends into the suburbs and becomes an alternative for thousands of commuters. The article describes how MARTA has been a spur to development in the city. However, MARTA is today at a crossroads. Plagued by labor costs and a flat income base, it is struggling with a financial crisis exacerbated by a 3-year moratorium on fare increases. Another serious issue is related to finding a way to expand into the suburbs. Government policy favors cars which account for 96% of daily trips into Atlanta. The question of how to pay for expansion is also an issue.