Could Atlanta Transit Be Profitable…Again?

Inman Park Trolley Barn on Edgewood Avenue Streetcar Line

Atlanta’s first electric streetcar line was introduced in 1889 and operated on private funds. 

And it was profitable. 

The streetcar ran from Joel Hurt’s downtown skyscraper, the Hurt Building, along Edgewood Avenue to Inman Park. 

Edgewood Avenue was originally built for horsecars but electric streetcars replaced them just 3 years later.

Just like the Atlanta & Edgewood Street Railway, BeltLine transit systems could come online in public/private partnerships and be operated profitably. 

Microsoft, for example, is developing a 70-acre campus adjacent to Westside Park. 

The company chose the site in part because of proximity to Bankhead MARTA Station. 

This project has already attracted $6 million in funds to upgrade the MARTA Station

It’s not too hard to imagine history repeating itself with a large company like Microsoft investing in a transit system if it could be operated at a profit.

Such systems are emerging around the world and have attracted almost $90 billion dollars to the investment pipeline.

And, just like the horsecar, the electric streetcar will one day be replaced with a better transit solution.

Want to live near the Atlanta BeltLine? Search for homes for sale here.

About Burke Sisco

Burke Sisco is a Realtor and Associate Broker of eXp Realty (License #245380) with over 20 years of experience in the Atlanta real estate market. He calls the surging infra-culture around the BeltLine both home and business territory and is the founder and managing editor of BeltLandia.com. He has helped a number of satisfied clients buy and sell property in BeltLandia. Those interested in living the BeltLandia Lifestyle can reach Burke at 404.421.9968 or by email at burke.sisco@exprealty.com.

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