By Kyle Gomez-Leineweber
Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, GALEO Impact Fund
NORCROSS, Ga. | As a proud resident of Gwinnett County with roots going back to my grandparents in Buford, I’ve seen firsthand the critical role mobility plays in the lives of our community. Gwinnett is home to diverse communities, including many Latino and immigrant families.
Gomez-Leineweber
For a significant number of residents, owning or accessing a car is a privilege they cannot afford. Too many have to rely on others for rides, pay for costly services like Uber and Lyft, or walk long distances on unsafe roads without sidewalks. These barriers make it difficult for people to get to work, go to doctor appointments, or attend school meetings for their children.
Growing up, I watched my father—a proud immigrant from Mexico—struggle to maintain access to reliable transportation. This struggle remains a reality for thousands of families today. Expanding transit in Gwinnett would provide what our community needs most: more options.
An expanded transit system would allow us to move without sacrificing time, money, or safety. Whether it’s catching a bus to work or using affordable microtransit options, a better public transportation system helps everyone, especially those who don’t have access to a car. We cannot ignore the needs of tens of thousands of Gwinnett residents who would benefit from a more connected network.
Voting YES for Gwinnett Transit will benefit all residents, even those who may not directly use the system. This plan is designed to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety in our communities, and create a more accessible future. The transit referendum on the ballot this November presents a unique opportunity for meaningful change.
One key element of the proposed expansion is the installation of smart traffic signals, which will help reduce congestion throughout the county. These synchronized signals will keep traffic flowing smoothly, cutting down delays. This solution benefits everyone—drivers who want shorter commutes and transit riders who need reliable options to get where they need to go. It’s a simple but effective improvement for Gwinnett’s traffic challenges.
Another exciting feature of the expansion is the creation of a direct shuttle service to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. For many of us, traveling to the airport without a personal vehicle or paying for an expensive rideshare can be difficult. This new, affordable shuttle service offers a convenient and reliable option for Gwinnett residents needing easier airport access.
The transit referendum will also have a positive impact on seniors and people with disabilities, ensuring they can get to their destinations safely and affordably. I think of my grandfather, who, after suffering a stroke, went from being a fiercely independent retired cop to relying on loved ones for transportation. By passing this measure, we’re not only improving mobility across the county; we’re also supporting our most vulnerable residents.
Ultimately, this isn’t just about traffic; it’s about supporting all Gwinnett residents. Whether it’s hard-working immigrants like my father or longtime community members reclaiming independence like my grandfather, this transit expansion is for all of us. Gwinnett County stands out in Georgia as a great place to live and work, and it’s time our transit system reflects that standard.
By voting YES on this transit referendum, we are choosing a more connected, efficient, and equitable future for Gwinnett. Let’s work together to make it happen.
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