Group creates crowdfunding campaign to put trash cans at MARTA bus stops

EAST POINT, Ga. — Channel 2 Action News is looking into complaints of litter piling up at MARTA bus stops in East Point.

There are fewer than 20 trash cans for nearly 320 stops.%

Channel 2’s Rikki Klaus spoke with one group Tuesday night that says they have started the largest crowdfunding campaign ever to help the problem.

Trash is a common sight at MARTA bus stops in south Fulton County.

An organization of MARTA advocates, called MARTA Army, and the city of East Point, are aiming to change that.

Recently, they launched a crowdfunding campaign called Operation Cleanstop.

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“I’m really excited about this project because it’s an opportunity for local residents to reclaim ownership of the system and to help make a difference in their own neighborhoods,” said Dahab Hagos-Fewell

Hagos-Fewell doesn’t drive. She rides MARTA to get around, and has noticed the litter.%

“It is really bad there. Many stops are in front of homes. In front of businesses and you see big pieces of litter,” Hagos-Fewell told Klaus.

She and her family donated to help purchase a trash can.

East Point made a deal with MARTA Army. For every $200 raised, leaders will place one trash can at a bus stop, and pick up the garbage indefinitely.

“Folks that are going to and from the MARTA stations will now have a place to put that litter instead of putting it on the street,” East Point City Councilman Thomas Calloway said.

Georgia Tech transportation expert Dr. Catherine Ross said litter in public spaces is a big health issue, especially for kids. And it causes disorder and even fear, which makes an environment ripe for crime.

“It really has to do with creating a safe, clean healthy environment that gives people the idea that transit is also a safe, clean healthy place,” Ross told Klaus.

The crowdfunding website is up to nearly $3,200. That's good for 16 new trash cans. You can donate until Nov. 17.