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Gear Up for Biketober: Embrace Health and Sustainability at Atlantic Station

As the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s no better time to prioritize your health and well-being than with the arrival of Biketober.

This annual cycling challenge is once again gearing up to transform Atlantic Station into a hub of community engagement, physical activity, and environmental consciousness. This year marks the 11th year of Biketober in Atlanta.

For those unaware, Biketober is an exciting month-long initiative that encourages Metro Atlantans to swap their cars for bikes and embark on an active and eco-friendly commuting adventure. By biking to work, school and daily activities, participants have the opportunity to not only reduce stress and improve their overall well-being but also make a positive impact towards creating a greener and more sustainable environment.

Beginning on October 1st and closing out on October 31st, thousands of residents from the metro Atlanta area will unite to pedal their way through life’s challenges. Previous events have seen 3,000+ Metro Atlantans and 300+ companies from the 20-county region participate, and this year promises an even greater turnout. The community spirit intertwined with friendly competition truly makes Biketober an empowering initiative for everyone- you, your friends, family and co-workers!

Participating in Biketober not only benefits your physical and mental health but also gives you an opportunity to win some exciting prizes. By embracing active commuting, you can earn points and climb the leaderboards, with chances to win weekly giveaways. Early-bird registrants (those who register before October 1st) will be entered into a drawing for a $1,000 Airbnb gift card. And the grand prize? The cutting-edge Edison E-bike! The thrill of Biketober lies not just in the ride itself, but also in the anticipation and possibilities of what you could win.

The vibrancy and energy of Atlantic Station make it the perfect community to fully embrace Biketober. As you weave through this urban oasis of shops, parks, and vibrant streets, imagine the positive impact each pedal stroke has on your physical and mental well-being. Whether you’re a dedicated cyclist or a casual rider, this is your opportunity to be an active part of something bigger.

Join us in shaping a healthier, greener future across Atlantic Station by signing up for Biketober today, where you can start earning points, showing up on the leaderboard, and winning prizes!

Biketober is brought to you by Georgia Commute Options (GCO) and powered by Love to Ride. Partner organizations include the Atlanta Regional Commission, Propel ATL, American Heart Association, PATH Foundation

 

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Clean Commute Resources for Atlantic Station Office Workers: A Quick Guide

Commuting to work each day can develop into a hassle over time, especially if you live far away from your workplace.

At Atlantic Station, we understand how important it is for you to have a convenient work commute. That’s why we’ve put together a list of clean commute resources that make your journey to work stress-free.

Whether you prefer public transit, biking, or carpooling, we’ve got you covered.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through each option so you can find the best one for your specific needs.

 

Shuttle

Travel between Atlantic Station and the Arts Center MARTA station on the Atlantic Station Shuttle. Operating 7 days a week from 5:00 AM to 12:00 AM, this shuttle arrives every 15 minutes (with slight delays during peak travel times).

Enjoy a quick 10-minute ride between the heart of Atlantic Station and the Arts Center MARTA Station, where you can easily connect with a wide range of local and regional buses and trains. Best of all, the shuttle is completely free for all riders.

For convenience, you can track the Atlantic Station Shuttle in real-time on the ASAP website.

 

Bike Amenities

For residents who enjoy biking, Atlantic Station offers plenty of bike amenities, including secure bike parking, bike repair stations, and free bike rentals. There are dedicated bike lanes lining 17th Street and plenty of bike racks.

Additional bike resources include:

  • Lime has E-bikes for rent.
  • Looking for a bike rack? Discover over 20 bike racks at Atlantic Station. Explore our map to locate one near you!
  •  Did you know that the buses and trains run by MARTA are bike-friendly? Read here for additional tips and rules for taking a bike on the bus.

 

Scooters

Electric scooters are becoming an increasingly popular way to get around Atlantic Station.

Below, you’ll find some helpful information on where you can pick up and drop off scooters:

  • You’ll find conveniently located designated parking zones where you can rent Bird and Lime scooters.
  • Scooters should only be parked in the designated scooter parking zones highlighted on the Atlantic Station Transportation Map. Remember, scooters are not permitted on sidewalks, in the parking deck, or on the internal streets of the Atlantic Station district.
  • You can ride a scooter almost anywhere around Atlanta! Whether you’re headed to Midtown, the Arts Center MARTA station, the Atlanta Beltline Eastside Trail, or your favorite spot, scooters are a convenient option. If you live nearby, consider using a scooter for your commute and discover how easily you can navigate the city.

 

Carpool

Carpools involve two or more individuals sharing rides to and from work, making commuting more convenient and environmentally friendly.

If you’d like to save money on gas, reduce your carbon footprint, and ride in the HOV lane then carpooling is an excellent option.

Looking for someone to carpool with who has a similar route and schedule? Find a match on your own through our regional partnership with Georgia Commute Options, where you can also track your trips and earn hundreds of different rewards for rides you already take.

ASAP also assists groups of four or more, specifically those who have long commutes, in creating vanpools. Our partners will supply you with an SUV or van and the expenses will be divided among the members. For further details, please reach out to us.

 

Get Rewarded for your Clean Commute

At Atlantic Station, we appreciate our residents who choose eco-friendly transportation options. That’s why we’ve implemented a rewards program through the GCO App. This program awards points for commuting car-free, carpooling, biking, or walking to work.

You can earn points for every trip you take, which can be redeemed for prizes like gift cards, cash, and exclusive discounts. It’s our way of encouraging our residents to make greener transportation choices.

We encourage our residents to take advantage of these resources and make a positive impact on the environment.

As always, we appreciate your commitment to sustainability and thank you for choosing Atlantic Station as your home.

Want to learn more? Find the best way to get to your workplace by selecting one of the buildings on the ASAP website.

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Carpooling is the best way to commute on the weekends.

Why Carpooling is the Best Weekend Commute Option

Atlantic Station is full of exciting events and activities that draw thousands of people.

When the weekend hits, it’s no secret that the traffic and parking in downtown Atlanta can be challenging.

Luckily, you don’t have to let the hassle of finding a parking spot and the annoyance of driving in dense traffic ruin your weekend. Why not carpool with friends or family and make the trip more enjoyable and more eco-friendly? It’s a win/win!

Whether you live here, work here, or are just visiting, we’ll show you how to make the most of your experience by organizing a carpool.

In this article, we’ll explore a few benefits of carpooling during the weekend and provide you with simple tips on how to effectively organize one.

 

Immediately Save on Transportation and Parking Costs

By sharing the costs of transportation, you can save a considerable amount of money on gas and parking fees. Instead of each person driving separately, just one vehicle can carry four or more people, making it not only more cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. From there, you can decide how the cost is split among the people involved.

 

Reduce Traffic Congestion 

The UA NEXT ELITE 24 and events like it typically attract a large number of visitors to the heart of Atlanta. That means roads leading to the Atlantic Station will be even busier. By carpooling, you can take one or two cars off the road, which will help reduce traffic congestion and make the trip less stressful.

 

Make New Friends and Socialize 

Carpooling is a great way to get to know your neighbors and coworkers. You’ll have the opportunity to chat, share stories, and perhaps even make new friends. Plus, with a group, you can enjoy your time together listening to music or playing games instead of worrying about the traffic.

Better yet, the GCO app helps you find people to carpool with and even offers rewards for tracking your trips. You can use the app to find people who are going your way and share the ride for as little as half the cost of driving solo. Plus, you get to skip traffic headaches and enjoy a stress-free commute! Best of all, you’ll be doing your part for the environment by reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Download the GCO app today and start carpooling today!

 

Plan Ahead and Communicate 

To ensure a smooth ride, it’s important to plan ahead of time and communicate with your carpool group. Decide on a meeting place and time, then designate a driver. Additionally, be sure to communicate to your group about what to expect during an event, such as where you’ll be seated and when you plan on leaving to head back home.

 

Keep Atlantic Station Clean and Green Today

With numerous transit options available in addition to carpooling such as buses, bikes and MARTA trains, navigating Atlantic Station has never been easier!

Visit our getting around page for more information on how you can start taking clean and affordable trips to Atlantic Station today.

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Guaranteed Ride Home Is Now Available 24/7 for Metro Atlanta Commuters

Living and working at Atlantic Station comes with a unique set of perks, but we all know that commuting can be a challenge for many individuals. 

If you’re a registered commuter with our partner Georgia Commute Options  you’ll be delighted to know that the free Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) program has now expanded to operate 24/7!

Life can be unpredictable and unexpected situations may arise – whether it’s a family emergency, unplanned overtime at work or a sudden illness. With Georgia Commute Options’ Guaranteed Ride Home program, you can commute with peace of mind knowing you have a reliable safety net.

This recent update ensures that commuters will never be stranded, no matter the time or situation. This also makes carpooling and transit more appealing options, because the worry of being stranded or having limited transportation choices is alleviated, encouraging more individuals to opt for sustainable commuting solutions. 

Below, you’ll find a recap of how GRH works, how to redeem your free rides and a list of benefits that commuters can enjoy.

 

What is Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH)?

  • The GRH program, offered by Georgia Commute Options, is designed to provide a reliable and convenient backup plan for commuters. 
  • Members of the GCO app can redeem Uber rides up to 4 times per year.
  • Users can now request the GRH through their account on the MyGaCommute website or the Ga Commute app.

 

Benefits of 24/7 GRH

  1. Reliability at Any Hour: The expansion of the GRH program to operate 24/7 means you can count on a ride home, even during the late hours or early morning. No matter what time your shift ends, you won’t have to worry about finding a ride back home.
  2. Flexible Emergency Coverage: Life’s emergencies don’t adhere to a schedule, and with the 24/7 GRH, you can rest assured that you’re protected round the clock. Whether it’s a sudden family matter, an unexpected work obligation, or any other unforeseen event, GCO has your back.
  3. Stress-Free Carpooling and Transit Commutes: Knowing that you have a guaranteed ride home reduces the stress associated with commuting. You can focus on your workday or enjoy your time at Atlantic Station without the constant worry about transportation.
  4. Cost-Effective Solution: With the GRH program being offered at no additional cost to GCO members, it’s a cost-effective alternative to expensive last-minute rides, taxi fares, or surge pricing from ride-sharing apps.

 

To Redeem Your Free Rides, Follow These Simple Steps:

  1. Access the Ga Commute app or visit MyGaCommuteOptions.com.
  2. Ensure your account settings have a valid phone number and that you’ve enabled text message notifications. You’ll receive a verification code via text to confirm your phone number.
  3. Visit the rewards tab on the GA Commute app or webpage and navigate to the featured section where you will see “Guaranteed Ride Home” as an option. Click on “Redeem for 0 points” in green at the bottom of the page, after reviewing the terms and conditions.
  4. Provide the necessary information for fulfilment and select your email.
  5. A GCO staff member will contact you to confirm the ride details.
  6. After confirming the details, the GCO staff will schedule your Uber ride.
  7. You’ll receive a text message containing your Uber’s information, including the car description, license plate and driver’s name. A tracking link will also be provided, allowing you to monitor your ride’s progress, but changes cannot be made.
  8. Enjoy your ride!

For GCO members living or working at Atlantic Station, the expansion of the GRH program to operate 24/7 is undoubtedly a game-changer. Now, you can enjoy a stress-free commute, knowing that GCO has your back no matter what time or situation arises. Sign up for the program today.

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A Quick Guide for Commuting to the Atlanta Open at Atlantic Station

As a resident, visitor or worker in Atlantic Station, you have the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the excitement of the renowned Atlanta Open tournament. 

This prestigious event promises world-class tennis action from top talent and an electrifying atmosphere that will keep you on the edge of your seat. However, with the influx of attendees, parking at the tournament will be packed and potentially challenging.

Fear not! We’ve got you covered with some convenient recommendations for getting around the tournament this year so you can enjoy the event without worrying about parking availability.

 

Atlantic Station Pinnacle Lot

The Atlantic Station Pinnacle Lot offers 7,000 parking spaces below the complex; however, due to high demand from tournament fans and regular Atlantic Station visitors, it tends to fill up quickly.

If the Pinnacle Lot is an option for you, you’ll find additional commute details below:

By Car: Drive to the P2 level of the parking deck, and once parked, exit near Stairwell 2 to access the event entrance on 20th Street.

Walking: Head to the P2 level of the parking deck using Stairwells 2, 3, or 4, and then exit straight ahead onto 20th Street.

Rideshare: If you’re using Lyft or Uber, the designated drop-off location for the Pinnacle Lot is at 241 20th Street, Atlanta, GA 30363.

Check out the Directions and Parking section of the Atlanta Open website for additional details.

 

Commuting From the Atlanta Airport

The journey from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to Atlantic Station typically takes around 30 minutes. 

To ensure a smooth and convenient ride, your best bet is to opt for a taxi or Uber from the airport, with fares usually ranging between $20 to $30. 

 

Free Shuttle Service From MARTA

With the expected influx of visitors, utilizing the free shuttle service is strongly encouraged.

Atlantic Station is well-served by various transit options, making it easy for you to reach the tournament without the hassle of hunting down a parking space. MARTA, Atlanta’s public transit system, offers complimentary shuttles to and from Atlantic Station via the Arts Center MARTA Station

Simply hop on a train and get off at Arts Center Station, located just steps away from the tournament. This allows you to bypass traffic congestion and focus on enjoying the tournament to the fullest.

 

Atlantic Station Shuttle

The Atlanta Open provides a free shuttle service within Atlantic Station during the tournament. The shuttle operates on a loop, making it easy for you to navigate the area, visit different courts, and access amenities. 

The Atlantic Station Shuttle ensures you can move around easily, catch matches at your preferred courts, and explore everything Atlantic Station has to offer during the tournament.

Check out ASAP’s shuttle tracker, where you can track the Atlantic Station Shuttle route and the real-time locations of each shuttle.

What makes this venue truly exceptional is its close proximity to an array of other food and entertainment options. Whether you’re seeking a break from tennis or craving a variety of culinary delights, you’re in luck since the venue is situated in the heart of a sprawling shopping and restaurant district.

Learn more about how to get around Atlantic Station here.

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How Atlantic Station Became the #1 Flexwork Destination in Atlanta

In today’s ever-changing work landscape, flexibility is no longer a luxury- it’s a necessity.

Whether you’re an employee looking for a dynamic work environment or a resident looking for a place that seamlessly combines work and play, Atlantic Station is at the heart of it all.

With its vibrant community and an array of amenities, Atlantic Station has emerged as the best place to live and work in Atlanta, earning high accolades in categories ranging from outdoor activities to health and fitness, commuting, and more.

The convenient location and pedestrian-friendly environment creates a seamless transition between work and personal life, allowing you to maximize productivity and enjoy the balanced lifestyle so many workers have come to desire, without the need for constant driving. Having such close access to jobs and errands helps promote alternatives to solo driving like walking, biking, and flexwork.

With more people choosing to bike and walk, roads in Atlanta have the opportunity to become less congested. A study by Share The Road found that when cities decide to invest in “active transportation” and/or flexwork, traffic and congestion begin to decrease significantly.

Benefits of reduced traffic often include:

  1. Overall better travel times
  2. Traffic accident delays are reduced
  3. Better access to city facilities and services for everybody

 

Looking for an opportunity to become more physically active? 

Our final Wellness Wednesday event just might be the jumpstart that you need. Check out the event details below!

 

Fuel With Rob Owens

Grab your workout buddy and join Atlanta trainer Rob Owens as he challenges your body and mind with a day of free training. All it takes is a little bit of exercise to help increase blood flow, release endorphins, and reduce overall stress. Exercise has been shown to reduce depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues in people who do it regularly, as evidenced by a study from Medical News Today. It’s even more effective than medication in most cases! The Health Wealth Reward Card benefits apply to this Wellness Wednesday activity as well. Give yourself the building blocks of happiness and health by registering for a class here.

 

Stay Informed on Future Events Through The Pulse

Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of our dynamic community and experience the best of Atlantic Station. If you live or work in Atlantic Station, sign up for The Pulse newsletter to stay in the know about all the events and amenities that continue to breathe excitement into our thriving community. From the latest concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions to special promotions, retail sales, and dining experiences, you’ll get all the updates delivered straight to your inbox.

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Why Atlantic Station Commuters Are Clearing the Air for the Atlanta Region

Improving air quality is a crucial step towards a better future, and 339 Atlantic Station commuters are making a change for the better by participating in the “Million Air Challenge.” This challenge aims to remove one million pounds of emissions from Atlanta’s air. Because of continued efforts like these, the air quality continues to get better each year. Here are some of the benefits this challenge provides:

 

Better Air for the Entire Community

Every time you choose to use a green commute, you make a significant impact on reducing pollution and improving Atlanta air quality. This doesn’t just benefit you, but your neighbors as well. By taking part in this challenge, you’ll also be paving the way for a better, healthier future for everybody. Learn more about the state of Metropolitan Atlanta’s air quality here.

 

Better Overall Health

One easy way to improve air quality is to opt for more active ways of commuting like biking or walking. Walking and biking boosts cardiovascular health, reduces the risk of heart diseases and helps in maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, walking and biking allow you to spend more time outdoors, which promotes mental health and reduces stress levels.

 

Better Commuting Routine

If you’re not quite ready for an active commute, public transit and carpooling are excellent options that can also add some variety to your daily routine. It’s worth considering and trying something new, and you might even find that you enjoy the change of pace!

 

Win Prizes for Trips You Already Take

By registering for the challenge and tracking your clean commutes through the GA Commute App, you’ll have the opportunity to win a variety of prizes, including gift cards, cash, and goods from local businesses. These trips can be tracked whether you are carpooling, vanpooling, riding transit or teleworking, which are all the best driving alternatives available to you. Not everyone has a friend or co-worker who lives nearby and can carpool with them, and the app makes this process simpler than ever. Now that you understand the impact you can have from participating in this challenge, it’s time for you to take action- you can reap the benefits and earn rewards along the way. Let’s continue working together towards a healthier future with cleaner air!

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5 Facts About Atlanta’s Air Quality

Historically, air quality in the Atlanta metropolitan area hasn’t been great. But that fate isn’t set in stone. In fact, every year Atlanta’s air quality gets a little better, proving that change is always possible.

Here are five things to know about the state of Metropolitan Atlanta’s air quality.

1) Poor Air Quality Can Impact Our Health

Air-born pollutants can have significant health consequences, especially for children, the elderly, and people with existing respiratory conditions.

Microscopic particles emitted by pollutants can burrow in the lungs or even blood, according to the CDC, while high ozone levels can be damaging to people with respiratory conditions like asthma. Reducing pollution is an important way to help everyone in our community stay healthy.

2) Atlanta Ranks Second in Pollution Emitted by Vehicles

It’s estimated that Atlanta ranks second nationally for most air pollution specifically from motor vehicles. Collectively, Atlantans drive upwards of 100 million miles a day, and the average daily commute is 34.2 miles, the fourth-highest driving distance in the country.

3) Atlanta’s Air Quality Gets Better Every Year—But There’s Still Work to Do

The 2022 State of the Air report released by the American Lung Association found that Atlanta’s air quality gets a little better every year. During the time frame covered by this report, Atlanta had the fewest ever days of unhealthily high ozone. Particle pollution was also at its best rate ever.

Despite these gains, though, Atlanta still received an “F” from the ALA for ozone pollution levels. The city is on the right track, but there’s still much to do.

4) Air Quality Can Worsen During the Summer

Ozone forms when other pollutants combine in heat and sunlight, so ozone pollution levels go up during the summer. Fortunately, the summer is also one of the best seasons for walking or biking, so Atlantans can mitigate this issue by choosing alternate forms of travel.

5) Getting Vehicles Off the Road Is Important for Clean Air

With so much of Atlanta’s pollution coming from motor vehicles, getting cars off the road is one of the most important things Atlantans can do to help improve air quality. You can do your part—while enjoying spending less time stuck in traffic—by walking, biking, carpooling, or taking transit.

Every year, Atlanta’s air gets a little bit better. If we all work together to get vehicles off the roads, we can keep this trend going.

We are doing our part to keep our neighborhood’s air clean. Click here to learn how—and see what you can do to help.

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