We're disappointed to report that on Monday, the City of Atlanta FY2025 budget adopted—being touted as the largest in history—did not include a real increase for the Atlanta Department of Transportation.

During the budget process, Atlanta City Councilmembers expressed skepticism that the proposed budget would adequately fund the department's operations. But in the end, no one proposed amending it, citing doubts that more money would even help.

We all want safe, thriving streets and the freedom to get to all the places we need to go. Reliable public transit and bus lanes, bike lanes, sidewalks, and crosswalks give us a sustainable and affordable way to get around. But today, Atlanta’s transportation budget is three times less than that of other cities of our size. No wonder our streets are clogged with traffic. 

The next time your community asks for a safer street design, traffic calming, or a pedestrian crossing and you're told the City doesn't have the time, equipment, or capacity to make it happen, remember this decision. 

We remain hopeful that one day, our City will express its commitment to safe and equitable mobility in the clearest way possible: in its budget.