Skip to Main Content
logo
The back view of a purple MARTA Rapid bus parked on a street near a Thai restaurant, with pedestrians nearby at a station.The back view of a purple MARTA Rapid bus parked on a street near a Thai restaurant, with pedestrians nearby at a station.

Planning high-capacity transit on Atlanta’s I-285 

CDM Smith is helping regional partners evaluate bus rapid transit (BRT) on I-285, advancing equitable, reliable mobility for one of metro Atlanta’s most congested corridors. 

Client

MARTA

Location

Atlanta, Georgia

Practices

Transit & Urban MobilityTransportation Planning

Markets

Transit Agencies

Priorities

Complete Corridors

Connect with an expert

Sorenson_Tim_2021.jpg
Tim Sorenson PE
Transit & Urban Mobility Practice Leader

A regional express lanes BRT plan for a fast-growing I-285 corridor 

Rapid growth across metro Atlanta is placing increasing strain on the I-285 corridor, where congestion, limited transit options, and equity gaps challenge daily travel. To respond, regional transit and transportation agencies launched the I-285 Top End Transit Planning Study to evaluate high-capacity BRT within planned express lanes. CDM Smith is supporting this effort by integrating visioning, technical analysis, conceptual engineering, and public engagement to identify reliable, scalable transit solutions that leverage existing investments while improving access, connectivity, and long-term mobility. 

Evaluating BRT feasibility in express lanes 

CDM Smith assessed how BRT could operate within the I-285 managed lanes while maintaining speed, reliability, and operational efficiency. 

Considering all populations in transit planning efforts 

The team evaluated communities and essential worker markets to shape service designs that improve access beyond traditional park-and-ride models. 

Integrating stations with land use planning 

Station-area planning considered walk access, existing land use, and opportunities for transit-oriented development along the corridor. 

Aligning planning with environmental reviews 

An aggressive schedule coordinated service planning, station refinement, NEPA requirements, and alternatives analysis to keep the study on track. 

The I-285 Express Lanes Transit Planning Study has advanced through public engagement and technical analysis, helping regional partners prepare for future growth by identifying viable transit options, potential station locations, operational strategies, and funding approaches. The study represents a pivotal step in shaping how to address the region's growing need for expanded and reliable public transportation, leveraging planned express lane investments to deliver flexible and efficient transit solutions for residents and commuters. 

Curious to learn more?

Reach out to an expert to find out how we delivered this project.

Sorenson_Tim_2021.jpg

Tim Sorenson

Transit & Urban Mobility Practice Leader

Tim has spent more than 30 years creating sustainable, community-focused transportation solutions integrating mobility, infrastructure, and the environment.

More transportation projects in this region

View All Projects
Aerial view of a highway interchange with overpass and surrounding greenery.
Tifton District, Georgia

20 years of roadway revolution with GDOT

Interior of a large tank with workers and beams of light shining in.
Nashville, Tennessee

Renewing Nashville, one sewer pipe at a time 

Glowing digital envelopes on a dark background, symbolizing email communication.

Learn more about Complete Corridors

Find out how forward-thinking communities improve mobility, promote equity and enhance resiliency through our monthly newsletter.

Sign Up