DECATUR, Ga. – MARTA announced that it is changing the name of one of its lines to avoid any perceived “racially insensitive” implications.
Members of the Asian community expressed concern about one of the rail system’s lines being renamed the “Yellow” line.
In October, MARTA introduced color-coded rail lines – similar to systems in other major cities – saying it will help cut down on rider confusion. With the change, the former Northeast-South Line, which serves Doraville and Chamblee on the Northside, became the Yellow Line.
“In light of the concerns that have been expressed regarding the use of the word ‘yellow’ in connection with the Chamblee line, MARTA has decided to discontinue the use of the word ‘yellow’ and to instead use the word ‘gold,’ as suggested by some leaders of the Asian-American community,” Michael W. Tyler, chairman of the MARTA Board of Directors, and Beverly A. Scott, general manager/chief executive officer, said in a joint statement.
“The expressed concerns regarding the use of the phrase ‘Yellow-Line’ will be addressed in the most expeditious and cost-effective manner possible,” they added. “Given current financial conditions, MARTA will make these print changes as a part of the implementation of other system changes which are anticipated within the next six months.”
— Todd DeFeo
