Redefining the Ride – Xpress 2.0 is a regional study launched by The Atlanta-region Transit Link Authority (ATL) in 2023 to reimagine the Xpress Bus system. The study aims to evaluate commuter travel patterns and identify service changes to better match commuter demands.

Current Xpress ridership is 30% of pre-pandemic ridership. These proposed system recommendations explore opportunities to create a more efficient and effective service. Operating 27 bus routes, 27 park-and-ride lots, and 55 bus stops, Xpress is currently providing far more service than is being utilized. The Redefining the Ride – Xpress 2.0 proposed recommendations reimagines the Xpress system to better match actual usage and improve overall efficiency.

The proposed system recommendations outline a three-phased approach to improve Xpress service efficiency and expand rider options through reverse commutes and new markets.

– Phase I streamlines commuter trips, maximizes key park-and-ride lots, and updates bus stops and connections to MARTA rail stations to improve efficiency. This phase includes reducing and merging underutilized routes and park-and-ride lots and adjusting routes to end at various MARTA rail stations, enabling passengers to transfer to rail stations for the remainder of their commute.

– Phase II introduces reverse commutes, allowing trips from downtown Atlanta to seven suburban destinations and utilizing empty buses to serve major employment centers outside the perimeter. It also includes seven new market routes to enhance east-west regional coverage and connect unserved Metro Atlanta employment centers and transfer locations.

– Phase III explores adding new markets to enhance east-west regional coverage to major in-person employment centers (IPECs) and transfer locations. This additional coverage will provide new connections to areas with identified IPECs, such as Fulton Industrial Boulevard, Town Center/Big Shanty, College Park/HJAIA, Perimeter Center, Alpharetta, and Marietta.

A reverse commute involves traveling against the typical rush hour traffic flow from an urban area like Downtown Atlanta to suburbs or business parks for work. This approach makes efficient use of buses that would otherwise be empty, providing more travel options and a more integrated transit experience for riders. This includes transfer points that facilitate easier and quicker transfers between other operators. It also ensures that direct rides to Downtown Atlanta and Perimeter Center are maintained. For Xpress service, incorporating reverse commutes means we can better utilize our transit capacity, offer additional connections, and expand our ridership by catering to commuters traveling from downtown areas to suburban job locations.

Some routes may be merged or adjusted to ensure more direct and frequent service to key destinations. Additionally, underutilized routes may be modified or discontinued to allocate resources more effectively. These changes seek to enhance the reliability and convenience of the Xpress service and provide better connections and travel options for our riders. For more information about recommendations for specific routes, visit https://xpressga.com/routes.

Yes, changes are proposed to optimize the use of key park-and-ride lots. Underutilized locations may be taken offline or merged to better serve high-demand areas. These changes aim to improve overall service efficiency and provide better connections to major transit hubs and destinations. For more details on specific park-and-ride recommendations, visit https://xpressga.com/system-map.

No. Currently, there is no plan to increase fares for Xpress customers if the system recommendations are implemented.

The key goals of the proposed system recommendations include improving regional Xpress service, identifying service solutions to address new travel patterns and commutes, and offering efficient and convenient routes to attract and serve new and existing customers.

The proposed system recommendations are designed to complement and enhance other transit services like MARTA. They aim to improve connections and coordination between Xpress routes and MARTA rail and bus services, creating a more integrated transit experience. This includes more efficient transfer points for easier and quicker transfers, enhancing overall convenience for riders.

While the system recommendations have streamlined bus stops, proposed changes also provide increased access to MARTA’s rail stations – connecting riders to even more destinations with a free transfer.

The proposed system recommendations are currently being shared with the public and Xpress customers. Feedback received from the public will help refine the draft recommendation that will be presented to the ATL board for consideration and possible adoption. Stay informed by subscribing to the Xpress newsletter and visiting Xpressga.com.

Click here to take a brief survey and share your thoughts to help shape the future of our Xpress service.

Your feedback is crucial in shaping the final Redefining the Ride – Xpress 2.0 plan. We will review all input to understand the needs and preferences of our riders and stakeholders. This will help us refine and adjust the proposed changes to better serve our community, ensuring the final plan is inclusive, comprehensive and effective in enhancing our transit system.

The timeline for implementing the recommendations is still being finalized. Once approved, there will be opportunities for public input on proposed changes to each route at least six weeks before any service changes go into effect. Specific details about any changes will be communicated early and frequently to ensure riders have enough time to review and provide feedback, allowing for a smooth transition to the new service improvements.