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Fulton Residents Invited To Share Transportation Priorities

May 9th, 2016

This week, Fulton County residents can weigh in on how they would spend money on transportation. The money would come from a proposed sales tax that will be on the ballot in November.

The Georgia Legislature passed a bill allowing a vote on the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or TSPLOST, in the 2016 legislative session. Now, the cities in Fulton County are putting together lists of what projects would be funded.

“A lot of people would like to see roads resurfacing, sidewalks, those type things,” said Vincent Reynolds, transportation manager with the City of East Point.

Bigger picture, regional projects could also happen.

“I think we have to be multi-dimensional,” said Dave Williams, vice president for infrastructure and government affairs for the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “Our economy depends on having multiple choices and options. Not only for our residents, but for visitors.”

Williams said public transit and improvements for pedestrians and cyclists are all important – for visitors, for current residents and for attracting future residents, especially those coveted millennials.

“They are not necessarily interested in owning cars and having long commute,” said Williams. “If we’re going to compete favorably for those workers, we have to provide those options that they’re looking for.”

Meetings this week are scheduled in cities including East Point, Sandy Springs, Hapeville, Johns Creek and Atlanta. All the cities, and Fulton County itself, have to submit their project lists by the end of this month.