GDOT Proposes New Passenger Rail Connection from Savannah to Atlanta

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Conceptual image of a train traveling from Savannah to Atlanta

News Summary

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is exploring the feasibility of a passenger rail service that would connect Savannah and Atlanta. The project aims to reduce travel time and improve convenience for residents. An online survey has been launched to collect public input on potential routes. GDOT has secured $10 million in funding for the initiative. The proposed rail service could significantly alleviate road traffic and enhance affordable travel options, with the objective of covering the distance in approximately two and a half to three hours.

Savannah: GDOT Seeks Public Input for Proposed Passenger Rail Connection to Atlanta

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is studying the feasibility of a passenger rail service connecting Savannah and Atlanta to improve travel efficiency and convenience.

Key details about the project include:

GDOT has launched an online survey to gather public feedback on the need for the rail line, along with potential routes and stops.
The project has secured $10 million in funding, comprised of $8 million from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and a $2 million state match.
This study is part of the FRA’s Corridor Identification and Development program.
Savannah’s Mayor, Van Johnson, referred to the proposed rail line as a “game changer” for reducing road traffic and offering affordable travel options.
The last passenger rail service between Savannah and Atlanta was discontinued in 1971.

Currently, Amtrak service takes over 24 hours between the two cities, requiring multiple train changes in North Carolina. GDOT aims to reduce this travel time to approximately two and a half to three hours.

Future plans for the rail system include extending service from Atlanta to Nashville, with possible stops in:

Statesboro
Macon
Augusta

Stakeholder meetings are being conducted this spring to engage local experts and gather input from the community. Public meetings to discuss the early phases of the project will take place later this year.

Looking ahead, GDOT plans to:

Identify potential funding sources starting in 2026.
Develop a phased implementation plan between 2026 and 2027.

Currently, the fastest travel option between Savannah and Atlanta is by car, taking about four hours, or by plane, which can be expensive. GDOT’s environmental impact statement for the project is scheduled for release by 2028.

Additionally, GDOT is exploring the possibility of linking the Savannah-Atlanta rail service with other regional projects, including routes to:

Charlotte
Chattanooga
Memphis

Residents in Richmond Hill are encouraged to provide their opinions on the proposed rail service as part of the ongoing study. This will culminate in a Service Development Plan assessing the viability, costs, and benefits of the rail service.