MARTA Tests New Railcars to Upgrade Fleet

MARTA suspends Gold Line service between three stations for 13-hour CQ400 railcar test

MARTA Gold Line Halts for Railcar Tests March 29

Atlanta's MARTA will suspend Gold Line service between three stations for overnight railcar testing, transit officials said. The agency will test new CQ400 railcars from 3 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026, through 4 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026. Regular train service won't run between Lenox, Brookhaven, and Chamblee Stations during the 13-hour testing window.

Context

The Gold Line connects Doraville Station to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, making it one of MARTA's most critical routes for both commuters and air travelers. The CQ400 railcar testing represents part of the agency's broader fleet modernization effort, transit officials said. MARTA serves the Atlanta metropolitan area with rail and bus service, and the Gold Line carries thousands of riders daily. Officials said the overnight testing window was chosen to minimize disruption to weekday commuters, though the Sunday afternoon start time will affect weekend travelers.

Details

MARTA will operate shuttle buses on a continuous load-and-go basis between the three affected stations, according to the transit agency. The buses will load in the bus bay at each station and transport customers through the suspended service area. Officials said the bus bridge will maintain connectivity along the corridor during the testing period. The agency will evaluate the CQ400 railcars' performance during the overnight tests, with results informing future system upgrades, transit officials said.

Timeline

The testing begins at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 29, 2026, and continues through 4 a.m. Monday, March 30, 2026, officials confirmed. Normal Gold Line service is expected to resume for Monday morning's commute. Officials haven't said whether additional testing windows will be needed or when the new CQ400 railcars will enter regular passenger service.

Impact

Riders traveling between Lenox, Brookhaven, and Chamblee Stations should expect longer travel times due to the bus bridge replacement service. Airport travelers using the Gold Line during the testing window will need to allow extra time for their journeys. Moovit provides real-time updates for MARTA routes, helping riders navigate service changes and plan alternative routes during the overnight testing period.