HENRY COUNTY, Ga. (WGXA) — The Atlanta to Savannah railroad project has entered Phase 2 of its planning, with officials urging public participation in the Georgia Department of Transportation’s (GDOT) survey. The proposed passenger train route, which officials say could significantly boost economic growth and tourism through middle Georgia.
“All aboard,” is the rallying cry from county officials as discussions continue about the potential passenger train railroad that would travel from Atlanta to Macon, then on to Savannah. The I-75 Corridor Committee recently held a public meeting to explore federal, state, and local resources for the project.
Currently, five different route alternatives are under consideration, including paths from Atlanta to Athens to Savannah, and Atlanta to Augusta, then Savannah. Former Macon Mayor Robert Reichert emphasized the importance of local support for selecting the Macon location. “It’s going to take local grassroots support to make the final determination that’s going to be so important on whether we are or are not a selected corridor for this route between Atlanta and Savannah,” said Reichert.
Reichert also highlighted the potential for a train corridor connecting the Atlanta airport to middle Georgia, which he believes could enhance tourism. “It can literally bring the world to middle Georgia. If you get off the plane at Hartsfield-Jackson and onto the train and down to Macon… AH! Hotdog! We are cooking then!” he said…