Gwinnett County Considers 2024 Tax Increase for Transit Expansion
Gwinnett County, the second-largest county in Georgia, is eyeing a major upgrade to its public transportation network. In November 2024, county officials are poised to seek voter approval for a 1-cent sales tax hike, with the goal of expanding transit services.
Meeting the Transit Needs
Home to nearly 1 million residents in suburban Atlanta, Gwinnett County currently operates a bus system with a few shortcomings—it doesn’t run on Sundays, and some areas are left underserved. But the proposed tax increase aims to change all that.
No More MARTA Talks
Historically, Gwinnett County, along with Cobb County, considered joining the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) dating back to the 1960s. Yet, despite repeated attempts, voters and leaders consistently rejected MARTA participation. In 2019 and 2020, Gwinnett County voters said “no” twice.
“This proposal is not tied to MARTA,” emphasized Gwinnett County Commissioner Ben Ku.
A $17 Billion Transit Boost
If approved, the 1-cent sales tax increase is expected to generate a whopping $17 billion over time. Most of this funding will go toward hiring new staff and covering operational expenses. It will also fund the acquisition of new buses and the construction of new transit stations.
The plan includes a bus rapid transit system that will stretch from the northeast end of MARTA’s rail system in Doraville to the county seat in Lawrenceville. By 2033, the county’s on-demand microtransit service will expand to cover the entire county, ending the Sunday service gap. Moreover, the proposal involves revamping existing bus routes, increasing bus frequency, and granting buses priority at traffic signals.
Enhancing Connectivity and Access
Alongside these enhancements, Gwinnett County plans to offer vans to transport residents to the Atlanta airport, connect more bus routes to MARTA’s rail system, and establish routes extending into neighboring counties.
This week, a vote is scheduled to send the proposal for review by the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority, responsible for federal funding of local transit projects and state oversight. If approved, Gwinnett County residents may find the sales tax proposal on their November 2024 ballots.
China Thomas, Transit Capital Program Director, highlighted that this proposal would significantly increase the number of residents and jobs accessible within walking distance of a fixed-route bus stop.
In summary, Gwinnett County is considering a substantial investment in its transit system to address current limitations and improve transportation options for its residents.