Atlanta’s Transportation Committee met on July 31 at City Hall to discuss the ongoing issues with transportation in the city. Members listened to various proposals including one to amend Article III, “General Rules of Vehicle Operation” section 150 of the code of ordinances. City Councilwoman Joyce Sheperd introduced this new legislation in hopes to regulate the use of motorized play vehicles and all-terrain vehicles.  The new ordinance would allow authorities to impose penalties to include fines of $1,000, to anyone who violates regulations that are directly related to the operation of, parking, stopping, standing, placing or maintaining any all terrain vehicles (ATV), or other motorized play vehicles. The $1,000 fine would be for first offenders. The second offense faces a $2,000 fine and possible vehicle seizure that includes certain stipulations.

City Councilman District 10, Clarence T. Martin says, “It’s a great start to generate a discussion,” and agrees that something should be done however, he is aware that there is a long way to go and many details to be ironed out before any rule changes can be made.

Atlanta is a growing city and will continue to grow. With that comes certain transportation issues that the city plans to deal with and make improvements on in order to accommodate the growth.

Aaron Watson, Councilmember Post 2 At-Large, embraces the transportation challenges Atlanta faces, and he loves his city. “We have a lot of cars. There are a lot of people who want to be here and it’s a great city. We love this city, we make it a great city so there’s going to be a lot of people wanting to get here and I can’t blame them for that,” Watson said.

The committee is also discussing the future use of rail cars and possibly expanding the MARTA system as ways to provide improvement.