The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) is rolling out a major upgrade to its transit system this weekend with the debut of a new on-demand service designed to make riding public transportation more convenient for residents citywide.
Introducing MARTA Reach
Beginning Saturday, March 7, MARTA will launch “MARTA Reach,” an on-demand transit option that allows riders to request curb-to-curb pickups and drop-offs within designated service zones across metro Atlanta. This service joins MARTA’s traditional bus and rail network as part of the agency’s broader NextGen Bus Network improvements.
Riders will be able to request a ride through the MARTA Reach app or by phone, with vehicles arriving within roughly 30 minutes of a request. The service will operate 18 hours a day, seven days a week, offering flexible transportation to destinations within each zone or connections to bus and rail stations for longer trips.
Where It’s Available
MARTA Reach will initially operate in 12 metro Atlanta zones, including neighborhoods such as:
-
West Atlanta
-
Kirkwood/Candler Park
-
East Point
-
Lakewood
-
North Fulton
and additional areas across the transit network.
Within these zones, riders can travel directly from one location to another without needing to walk to a fixed-route stop — an important enhancement for those who live beyond standard bus or rail access.
Fare, Free Rides & Future Plans
To help introduce riders to the new service, MARTA Reach will be free to ride from March 7 until March 28, 2026. After that date, the service will adopt the standard MARTA fare of $2.50 per trip, the same cost as bus and rail rides.
The fare includes four free transfers for riders using MARTA’s evolving Breeze payment system, which is being upgraded with enhanced contactless features like mobile wallets and credit cards.
A New Era of Transit Connectivity
Officials say MARTA Reach is more than just another service — it’s part of a broader effort to improve first-mile, last-mile connectivity and make transit a more viable option for Atlanta residents who may not live near traditional bus or rail lines.
This launch marks a significant shift toward technology-integrated transit, giving riders more control over how and when they travel throughout the city.
For more information or to sign up, riders are encouraged to download the MARTA Reach app or call the reservation line after March 7.
(Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images)
No comments