Solomon Caviness, IV, Transportation Commissioner for Atlanta. Commissioner Caviness joins us today to provide an update on transportation challenges in a city that often takes an hour to get from one neighborhood to another, and that’s inside the perimeter. This month, with the FIFA World Cup semi-final games, we are expecting close to 70,000 people per match. My fingers are crossed that they will mainly use transit and rideshares.
For the FIFA World Cup, I cannot imagine what you have had to do to get the city ready for an additional 400,000 people. Please tell us about the preparation. Caviness explains that they have been planning for over a year to make our tourism district welcoming. From establishing integrated command centers, providing numerous ways to access information and signage throught the our sports and entertainment areas. Quoting our Mayor’s favorite expression that “Atlanta is a group project,” the transportation team has joined forces with the Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau, along with state and local municipalities to prepare for the influx of fans and tourists.
Caviness goes on to share, that they hope the folks in Atlanta participate in the games. They are encouraging the community to welcome the world by participating, sharing our culture and cheering for the teams. From GeorgiaCommute.com to receiving real-time updates on your phone (Text JOIN to 470-524-7673), his department is ready to make participation in the FIFA World Cup easy to navigate.
I asked about a few challenges that drivers face in our city including potholes. Caviness says that they have a Pothole Posse that fills 30 - 50 potholes daily. He speaks to the 94 miles of resurfacing that has occurred. Of course water, wear and tear means this is almost a neverending challenge.
To keep with the Transportation Commission your can visit their website (ATLDOT).