Infrastructure

Commissioner Robert Patrick has taken an important step toward transforming transportation options across the region. On February 14, 2024, he obtained funding approval from the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners for a crucial study that could reshape how residents travel throughout the County.

The Top End BRT Vision

The Board of Commissioners approved agenda item 2024-0257, authorizing a comprehensive Value Capture Study for the proposed I-285 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. This initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing the region’s transportation challenges while promoting economic development and connectivity.

The proposed Top End BRT system would connect the Tucker-Northlake area in eastern DeKalb County to the Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID): A journey that could be completed in just 45 minutes. This is a remarkable improvement over current travel times, especially during peak traffic hours.

What makes this concept particularly innovative is its integration with existing infrastructure. The BRT system would operate within the planned Peach Pass Express Lanes along I-285, maximizing efficiency without requiring entirely new roadways.

Creating Transportation Hubs

A key component of this vision involves establishing transit hubs or nodes in along the route. These strategically placed stations would serve as connection points for local transit services, integrating seamlessly across the regional transportation network.

For residents in District 1 communities like Tucker and Northlake, these hubs would offer convenient access to job centers, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and entertainment venues across the arc of the northern perimeter.

The Value Capture Study

The recently approved study, with funding of $70,000, will be conducted by KB Advisory Group, a respected consulting firm with extensive experience in transportation and economic development projects. The study is expected to be completed in mid 2025.

Value capture is a financing mechanism that recovers some or all of the value that public infrastructure generates for private landowners. When transit systems like BRT are built, nearby properties often increase in value due to improved accessibility. Value capture strategies allow some of this increased value to help fund the public infrastructure that created it.

The KB Advisory Group will identify potential funding opportunities and economic benefits associated with the Top End BRT project. Their analysis will include:

  • Projected economic impact of the BRT system
  • Opportunities for transit-oriented development
  • Innovative funding mechanisms for transit stations and infrastructure
  • Methods to finance complementary trail systems that could enhance connectivity

Benefits for DeKalb County Residents

The Top End BRT system could deliver numerous benefits to the community:

Reduced Traffic Congestion: By providing an attractive alternative to driving through Spaghetti Junction, BRT could help decrease the number of vehicles on the nation’s 4th worst intersection due to traffic congestion.

Economic Development: Transit hubs typically attract commercial and residential investment, creating jobs, adding new housing options and expanding the tax base.

Environmental Sustainability: Mass transit produces fewer emissions per passenger than individual vehicles, supporting the county’s environmental goals.

Enhanced Mobility: The system would provide reliable transportation options for residents without vehicles or those who prefer not to drive.

Regional Connectivity: Strengthening connections between DeKalb and neighboring counties promotes regional cooperation and economic growth.

Next Steps

Upon completion of the value capture study in 2025, county officials will have a clearer picture of the economic feasibility and funding strategies for this transportation project. The findings will guide decisions about station locations, development opportunities and implementation timelines.

Commissioner Patrick has expressed particular interest in how this initiative could benefit District 1 communities, including Tucker, Northlake and the existing cities along I285. These areas already serve as important commercial and residential centers in the county, and enhanced transit connectivity could accelerate their continued growth and development.

Community Engagement

As the county moves forward with this initiative, community input will be essential. Commissioner Patrick encourages all District 1 residents to share their thoughts about the proposed BRT system and how it might best serve their neighborhoods. The Commissioner’s office will provide updates on opportunities for public participation as the study progresses.

Transportation infrastructure investments like the Top End BRT represent DeKalb County’s commitment to creating a more connected, accessible and prosperous community. By exploring innovative approaches to transit development and financing, the county is positioning itself for sustainable growth in the decades ahead.

Commissioner Patrick continues to support this forward-thinking initiative and will work to ensure that District 1’s transportation needs are addressed in the county’s planning efforts.

Updates on this exciting project will be shared as development continues. Residents with questions or feedback about this or any other county matter are encouraged to contact the District 1 office at  district1@dekalbcountyga.gov. 

DeKalb County Approves Study for Top End I-285 Bus Rapid Transit Initiative

July 23, 2025

Commissioner Robert Patrick has taken an important step toward transforming transportation options across the region. On February 14, 2024, he obtained funding approval from the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners for a crucial study that could reshape how residents travel throughout the County.

The Top End BRT Vision

The Board of Commissioners approved agenda item 2024-0257, authorizing a comprehensive Value Capture Study for the proposed I-285 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. This initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing the region's transportation challenges while promoting economic development and connectivity.

The proposed Top End BRT system would connect the Tucker-Northlake area in eastern DeKalb County to the Cumberland Community Improvement District (CID): A journey that could be completed in just 45 minutes. This is a remarkable improvement over current travel times, especially during peak traffic hours.

What makes this concept particularly innovative is its integration with existing infrastructure. The BRT system would operate within the planned Peach Pass Express Lanes along I-285, maximizing efficiency without requiring entirely new roadways.

Creating Transportation Hubs

A key component of this vision involves establishing transit hubs or nodes in along the route. These strategically placed stations would serve as connection points for local transit services, integrating seamlessly across the regional transportation network.

For residents in District 1 communities like Tucker and Northlake, these hubs would offer convenient access to job centers, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and entertainment venues across the arc of the northern perimeter.

The Value Capture Study

The recently approved study, with funding of $70,000, will be conducted by KB Advisory Group, a respected consulting firm with extensive experience in transportation and economic development projects. The study is expected to be completed in mid 2025.

Value capture is a financing mechanism that recovers some or all of the value that public infrastructure generates for private landowners. When transit systems like BRT are built, nearby properties often increase in value due to improved accessibility. Value capture strategies allow some of this increased value to help fund the public infrastructure that created it.

The KB Advisory Group will identify potential funding opportunities and economic benefits associated with the Top End BRT project. Their analysis will include:

  • Projected economic impact of the BRT system
  • Opportunities for transit-oriented development
  • Innovative funding mechanisms for transit stations and infrastructure
  • Methods to finance complementary trail systems that could enhance connectivity

Benefits for DeKalb County Residents

The Top End BRT system could deliver numerous benefits to the community:

Reduced Traffic Congestion: By providing an attractive alternative to driving through Spaghetti Junction, BRT could help decrease the number of vehicles on the nation’s 4th worst intersection due to traffic congestion.

Economic Development: Transit hubs typically attract commercial and residential investment, creating jobs, adding new housing options and expanding the tax base.

Environmental Sustainability: Mass transit produces fewer emissions per passenger than individual vehicles, supporting the county's environmental goals.

Enhanced Mobility: The system would provide reliable transportation options for residents without vehicles or those who prefer not to drive.

Regional Connectivity: Strengthening connections between DeKalb and neighboring counties promotes regional cooperation and economic growth.

Next Steps

Upon completion of the value capture study in 2025, county officials will have a clearer picture of the economic feasibility and funding strategies for this transportation project. The findings will guide decisions about station locations, development opportunities and implementation timelines.

Commissioner Patrick has expressed particular interest in how this initiative could benefit District 1 communities, including Tucker, Northlake and the existing cities along I285. These areas already serve as important commercial and residential centers in the county, and enhanced transit connectivity could accelerate their continued growth and development.

Community Engagement

As the county moves forward with this initiative, community input will be essential. Commissioner Patrick encourages all District 1 residents to share their thoughts about the proposed BRT system and how it might best serve their neighborhoods. The Commissioner's office will provide updates on opportunities for public participation as the study progresses.

Transportation infrastructure investments like the Top End BRT represent DeKalb County's commitment to creating a more connected, accessible and prosperous community. By exploring innovative approaches to transit development and financing, the county is positioning itself for sustainable growth in the decades ahead.

Commissioner Patrick continues to support this forward-thinking initiative and will work to ensure that District 1's transportation needs are addressed in the county's planning efforts.

Updates on this exciting project will be shared as development continues. Residents with questions or feedback about this or any other county matter are encouraged to contact the District 1 office at  district1@dekalbcountyga.gov. 

Related Posts