Media Center

Today Congressman David Scott (GA-13) praised the decision by the Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) Board to adopt a resolution in support of a commuter rail line to run along the Macon Corridor from Atlanta to Lovejoy with possible service to commence in October 2006.

“I commend the members of the Georgia DOT Board for acting forthrightly in support of the Atlanta to Lovejoy commuter rail line today,” said Congressman Scott. “Georgia is continuing to experience rapid growth. This line will provide tremendous economic benefits to the Southside communities all along the rail route as well as much needed alternative transportation for people who brave terrible traffic on choked roads and ever-rising gas prices in metro Atlanta. With today’s vote, Georgia is moving forward quickly to provide solid evidence of progress on eliminating congestion and improving air quality for its residents.”

The resolution was adopted during a full Georgia DOT Board meeting today with a 7 to 5 vote in favor of the project. $87 million in federal funds matched with $19 million in state funds will upgrade rail lines, purchase rail cars, and build park-and-ride lots and station platforms. On August 2, 2005, the Clayton County Commission adopted a Resolution authorizing the County Commissioner to enter into a Local Project Agreement with the DOT for the establishment and operation of the project.