County to Spend $1.1 Million to Study Transportation Alternatives

A project described as a “major priority” for businesses in the Gwinnett Village and Gwinnett Place Community Improvement Districts moved one step closer to completion last week as the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners approved funding for a $1.1 million transportation alternatives and opportunities study.

The study will examine various transportation options along I-85 from the perimeter to Gwinnett Center including light rail, commuter rail, transportation system management, express bus and bus rapid transit. According to a Gwinnett County press release, the study will also look at the effects on traffic, travel patterns, the environment and land use for each option and will include estimated capital and maintenance costs. Ridership forecasts, plans for operation and cost-effectiveness will also be reviewed.

“This project has been a major priority for businesses in the CID for the past several years. We can improve the southern core of Gwinnett by increasing transportation options and providing a significant economic development boost,” said Executive Director Chuck Warbington of the Gwinnett Village CID in a released statement.

Gwinnett Place CID Chairman Leo Wiener described the study as “much needed.”

“We’re pleased to collaborate with the county, regional and federal transportation officials to pursue this much-needed transit alternative analysis and are committed to improving access throughout the greater Gwinnett Place area,” he said.

Gwinnett County chairwoman Charlotte Nash said the study will include public hearings and committees to advise on policies, technical issues and community concerns.

“Gwinnett’s population has increased so much over the last few decades. Today’s commuters need more transportation options," she said.

Half of the $1.1 million, 18-month project will be funded by the 2009 SPLOST program, the rest will be funded through a grant from the Federal Transit Administration.