Summerhill BRT line triggers elimination of parking minimums in much of the area!

We got some good news regarding the groundbreaking for MARTA's Summerhill Bus Rapid Transit line today!

It appears that, effective immediately, there are no longer any minimum parking requirements in much of Summerhill, Peoplestown, and South Atlanta, and maximum parking limits are in effect! That's because of a city ordinance that automatically removes all parking minimums when there's a "bus rapid transit, using and occupying an exclusive right-of-way for at least 75 percent of the route's length."

85% of the Summerhill route has dedicated lanes, according to MARTA records.

This is a very positive thing for supporting a new rapid transit line. Studies have found that the presence of cheap, plentiful parking lessens transit ridership.

Big thanks to Caleb for sharing this with us, and congratulations Atlanta -- you're moving a little closer to eliminating all parking minimums.

Here's the full ordinance...

Sec. 16-28.014(14) reads:

"...The following requirements apply to all uses located on lots within 2,640 feet of a high capacity transit stop, except within the Buckhead Parking Overlay, all special public interest districts, or any historic or landmark district with parking maximums.

(a)Minimum parking: No parking is required.

(b)Maximum parking established: No development, unless granted a special exception by the board of zoning adjustment for public parking, shall have parking in excess of the amounts specified below."

Chapter 29 defines it as:

"High capacity transit: A local or regional public transportation facility:

(i) using rail; or

(ii) using a fixed overhead wire system; or

(iii) in the case of bus rapid transit, using and occupying an exclusive right-of-way for at least 75 percent of the route's length. High capacity transit includes, but is not limited to, heavy rail, light rail, streetcars, commuter rail, and bus rapid transit. "

Bus Rapid Transit route