Mark your calendars: CL to host free panel discussion about transportation tax - and you’re invited

Are you on the fence about the so-called “Transportation Investment Act,” “regional transportation tax,” or T-SPLOST? You know, that sales tax that you and other voters will decide on July 31? The one that would fund new transit, including parts of the Atlanta Beltline, MARTA rail between Lindbergh and Emory University, and, yes, many, many roads out in the suburbs? Excited? Or maybe a little pissed off about the measure?

We understand your pain and want to help. On Thursday, May 10, yours truly will moderate a panel discussion at CL’s Atlantic Station offices about the regional transportation tax with supporters, opponents, and public honchos. The free event, which is part of our ongoing “Political Party” series, is open to the public and starts at 7:30 p.m. That gives you ample time to imbibe after work at any of the nearby taverns and/or speakeasies before joining us for a polite, civic discussion.

Joining us will be: Colleen Kiernan from the Georgia chapter of the Sierra Club, the eco-advocacy group that’s urging members to reject the tax; Jeff Dickerson, a spokesman for Citizens for Transportation Mobility, the business community’s campaign to convince voters to approve the measure; and Brian Leary, the CEO of the Atlanta Beltline, the 22-mile loop of parks, trails, and transit that’s taking shape around the heart of the city — and which, if approved, would receive $600 million to build light rail.

Expect much of the discussion to focus on what the tax could do for metro Atlanta, why the measure should be approved or rejected, and what happens if it fails. And yes, there will be time for questions. Our office is on the second floor of the building located at 231 18th St., Suite 8150, Atlanta, GA 30363. (We’re above Z Gallerie, which faces Atlantic Station’s “Central Park.”) Entrances are available on the alley on the south side of the building and Market Street. (We’ve embedded a map after the jump.) Atlantic Station offers ample parking available — the first two hours are free! — and a free trolley that picks up riders at the Woodruff Arts Center MARTA station’s bus bay every 15 minutes or so. MARTA bus no. 37 also serves the mini-city.

Need more info? Send me a line. We look forward to seeing you there.

Sign up on Facebook: CL’s Political Party: A free panel discussion on May 10 at 7:30 p.m. about the regional transportation tax, PrintHouse, 231 18th St., Suite 8150, Atlanta, GA 30363