People flock to Atlanta for its economic opportunities and tourist attractions. Unfortunately, the city also suffers some of the worst traffic congestion in the nation. In 2003, Atlanta drivers spent an average of 67 hours delayed in traffic. And the problem will only get worse — unless there are new transportation options.

The solution to this problem is the Beltline: a proposed 22-mile loop of public space, and transit. However, fiscal pressure from road-building lobbyists could deflate the Beltline transit proposal and leave Atlantans stuck in traffic.

As MARTA moves toward a decision on Beltline transit this fall, Georgia PIRG is working to ensure that the agency knows the facts:

• Only light railways in a dedicated lane will provide commuters with a reliable and convenient alternative to sitting in traffic.

•The Beltline must form an inclusive loop connecting to all four endpoints of the current MARTA system.

If we can persuade MARTA to adopt a rail-based loop that easily connects riders to existing transit across the city, the next step will be to secure federal funding to help Georgia build it.

Stay tuned.