Gold Line MARTA Rail
The Gold Line is a key rapid transit line in the MARTA rail system, running between the Doraville and Airport stations. This line services essential areas such as Doraville, Chamblee, Brookhaven, Atlanta, East Point, and College Park. Below is a detailed, SEO-optimized guide covering every aspect of the Gold Line, including stations, schedules, fares, and much more.
Gold Line
The Gold Line is a crucial transportation link for both commuters and travelers, connecting the northeastern suburbs of Atlanta with the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. It runs predominantly along a north-south route, making key stops in downtown Atlanta and offering convenient transfers to other MARTA lines.
Travel Time
The full journey from Doraville to Airport takes approximately 45 to 50 minutes, depending on train frequency and time of day.
Gold Line Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Stations | 18 |
| Length | 22 miles (35.4 km) |
| Operation | Daily service with shuttle operations after 8:30 PM weekdays and weekends |
| Shared Tracks | Shares tracks with the Red Line from Airport to just north of Lindbergh Center |
| Electrification | Third rail, 750 V DC |
| Operator | MARTA |
| Train Frequency | Varies by time of day, typically 12-20 minutes |
| Service Pattern | Full service on weekdays, with shuttle service after 8:30 PM on weeknights and weekends |
| Connections | Links to the Blue Line and Green Line at Five Points, plus bus routes at numerous stations |
Gold Line Stations
| Station Name | Code | Opened | Transfer Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Doraville | NE10 | 1992 | MARTA Bus, Park and Ride |
| Chamblee | NE9 | 1987 | MARTA Bus, Shuttle Services |
| Brookhaven/Oglethorpe | NE8 | 1984 | MARTA Bus |
| Lenox | NE7 | 1984 | MARTA Bus |
| Lindbergh Center | N6 | 1984 | Red Line, MARTA Bus |
| Arts Center | N5 | 1982 | MARTA Bus, Trolley |
| Midtown | N4 | 1982 | MARTA Bus, Georgia Tech Trolley |
| North Avenue | N3 | 1981 | MARTA Bus |
| Civic Center | N2 | 1981 | MARTA Bus |
| Peachtree Center | N1 | 1982 | MARTA Bus, Atlanta Streetcar |
| Five Points | S1 | 1981 | Blue Line, Green Line, MARTA Bus |
| Garnett | S1 | 1981 | MARTA Bus |
| West End | S2 | 1982 | MARTA Bus |
| Oakland City | S3 | 1984 | MARTA Bus |
| Lakewood/Fort McPherson | S4 | 1984 | MARTA Bus |
| East Point | S5 | 1986 | MARTA Bus |
| College Park | S6 | 1988 | MARTA Bus, ATL SkyTrain |
| Airport | S7 | 1988 | MARTA Bus, ATL SkyTrain, Direct airport terminal access |
Schedule and Frequency
| Time of Day | Train Frequency |
|---|---|
| 5 AM – 6 AM (Weekdays) | 20 minutes |
| 6 AM – 9 AM (Weekdays) | 12 minutes |
| 9 AM – 3 PM (Weekdays) | 15 minutes |
| 3 PM – 7 PM (Weekdays) | 12 minutes |
| 7 PM – 1 AM (Weekdays) | 20 minutes |
| All Day (Weekends) | 20 minutes |
Fare Information
| Fare Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Regular Fare (One-Way) | $2.50 |
| Children Under 46 inches | Free (limit 2 per adult) |
| Senior/Disabled Fare | $1.00 |
| MARTA Mobility | $4.00 |
| 1-Day Pass | $9.00 |
| 7-Day Pass | $23.75 |
| 30-Day Pass | $95.00 |
Fares are paid using the Breeze Card, which costs $2 and can be reloaded for up to three years.
Connections with Other Lines and Transportation
- Red Line: The Gold Line shares tracks with the Red Line between Airport and just north of Lindbergh Center.
- Blue Line/Green Line: Transfers available at Five Points station.
- MARTA Bus: All stations on the Gold Line provide connections to MARTA bus routes.
- ATL SkyTrain: At the Airport and College Park stations, offering transport to airport terminals.
Benefits of Using the Gold Line
- Direct Airport Access: The Gold Line provides a convenient, direct route to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, making it ideal for travelers.
- Frequent Service: With trains running every 12 to 20 minutes, the Gold Line ensures timely travel across Atlanta.
- Major Hub Connectivity: The line connects to key locations like Lenox, Midtown, and Peachtree Center, making it vital for commuters and visitors.
- Eco-Friendly Option: By reducing reliance on cars, the MARTA Gold Line helps lower traffic congestion and environmental impact.
History of the Gold Line
The Gold Line was initially part of the North-South Line and began service in 1981 with the opening of its first segment from Garnett to North Avenue stations. In 1987, the line extended north to Chamblee and finally reached its northeastern terminus in Doraville in 1992. In 2009, MARTA adopted a color-coded naming system, and the line was renamed the Gold Line. A controversial initial proposal to name the line Yellow was changed due to concerns from the local Asian-American community, making it Gold instead.
Points of Interest and Tourist Attractions
- Lenox Square Mall: A major shopping destination located near the Lenox station.
- Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: One of the busiest airports in the world, accessible from the Airport station.
- Midtown Atlanta: Home to the High Museum of Art, Fox Theatre, and other cultural landmarks.
- Peachtree Center: A bustling commercial area with restaurants, offices, and hotels in downtown Atlanta.
- Doraville: A culturally diverse area known for its large Asian-American community, with numerous international markets and restaurants.
Tips for Using the Gold Line
- Buy a Breeze Card: To save time and streamline your trips, purchase and load a Breeze Card for multiple rides.
- Plan for Peak Hours: The Gold Line can get busy during rush hour (6 AM to 9 AM, 3 PM to 7 PM), so plan your travel accordingly to avoid crowds.
- Check for Service Alerts: Always check the MARTA website or app for potential service changes or disruptions before heading out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Gold Line connect to the Atlanta Airport?
Yes, the Gold Line provides a direct connection to the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport at the Airport station.
How much does it cost to ride the Gold Line?
The standard fare is $2.50 for a one-way trip, with passes and discounts available.
How often do trains run on the Gold Line?
Trains typically run every 12 to 20 minutes, depending on the time of day and day of the week.
Can I transfer to other MARTA lines from the Gold Line?
Yes, you can transfer to the Red Line between Lindbergh Center and Airport, and to the Blue Line and Green Line at Five Points.
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