To suburb or not to suburb? That is the question MARTA is pondering these days. The agency is extending public commenting through July on its proposed new line to Alpharetta after receiving mixed reactions to the plan. The extended service, known as Connect 400, would run rail through 11.9 miles of existing right-of-way in the 400 corridor, starting at the North Springs station and ending at Windward Parkway in Alpharetta. A public-private partnership would help fund as many as six new stations. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Streetcar and Beltline are focusing their attention in town. The dynamic duo are in the midst of determining the best options to connect future streetcar routes to the Beltline — something that isn't always as straightforward as it seems due to the location of obstacles such as the active Hulsey Rail Yard (under or around?) and Centennial Olympic Park (through or around?).

The Atlanta Streetcar and Beltline would like to show you more routes on larger maps, discuss technical issues and get feedback at a public Citywide Conversation meeting at 6:30 p.m. on June 17 at City Hall. How and where should it connect to MARTA? Which routes are most useful? Show up and let them know.



If MARTA's Connect 400 plan is approved, the finished product might still be a decade away, but that doesn't mean you have long to speak your mind. Public comments will only be accepted through the end of July. Should the transit agency be focusing more on in town connectivity or is the jam-packed 400 corridor in dire need of more rail? Send an email to let them know.

Or just draw your own dream map of transit and plaster it all over town.

· MARTA Considering Expanding Rail Service North [WABE]

· MARTA now seeks public comment on adding rail to Alpharetta [Atlanta Business Chronicle]

· Citywide Conversation on Transit Route Selection [Atlanta Beltline]