MARTA has no timeline for when its new rail cars will enter service, leaving commuters and World Cup visitors relying on aging equipment during one of the city's biggest moments.
The transit agency has been working to introduce new trains to replace its aging fleet, but technical and delivery challenges have pushed back deployment. Agency officials said they cannot provide a firm date for when passengers can expect to see the new cars in regular service.
The delay comes at an unfortunate time, with hundreds of thousands of visitors expected in Atlanta for the FIFA World Cup. MARTA has been preparing for the influx of riders, but will do so with its existing fleet.
Meanwhile, the agency continues to face scrutiny over safety and security following several high-profile incidents. A federal investigation into the agency's security performance is ongoing.
Downtown and Midtown stations will see the heaviest use during match days and fan festival events.