Atlanta

Take a look at MARTA’s new railcars that will roll out in 2025

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ATLANTA — At the “State of MARTA” 2025 event Thursday, leaders of the public transport agency said they are taking the future of transit to a new level.

MARTA unveiled its new railcars, which just started arriving in Atlanta.

Channel 2′s Steve Gehlbach was able to get on board to show what that will mean for the metro Atlanta area’s riders.

The new look is set to be rolled out in the metro area later in the year, but officials showed off what will be different at the event.

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The first thing Gehlbach noticed was the amount of space.

The new trains have gangways between cars to walk through, charging stations for riders and even digital signs inside.

“It’s open, and everything is going to be digital,” said Terence Dildy, known as the Happy Operator, while checking out his new office. “It’s like a big spaceship, just on rails, all the latest technology.”

It was a stark contrast with current MARTA railcars, which were parked nearby.

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The transit agency is spending $700 million on 56 new four-car sets, 224 total. Each one has new seating, signs, maps and lighting while being safer, more comfortable, convenient and accessible, according to MARTA officials.

“The real potential of this train is to become a destination and experience in and of itself,” said George Wright, MARTA Chief Operations Officer.

After the first ride on the new train, General Manager and CEO Collie Greenwood gave his State of MARTA address.

“When I stepped onto that new train this morning, it felt like stepping into the future,” Greenwood said. “These new railcars are an inspiration to everyone at MARTA and to our customers who will get to experience a cleaner and safer ride – and hopefully one that shows them how transit can make their lives easier and their trip more enjoyable. The future of transit begins now at MARTA, and the State of MARTA is strong.”

Dildy said employees of MARTA and riders will all see and feel the difference.

“Been a long time coming, can’t wait to operate it,” Dildy said. “This is what the citizens, what the people of Atlanta deserve, and we’re glad to be giving it to them.”

A full look at the coming changes to MARTA can be seen online here.

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