what is Georgia State Road and Tollway Authority

The Georgia State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) is a government agency in the state of Georgia responsible for managing tolling systems, providing transportation financing, and overseeing certain transportation-related services. It plays a significant role in improving transportation infrastructure and mobility in the state. Here are its key functions:

1. Toll Management:

• SRTA operates the Georgia Express Lanes, a system of tolled lanes designed to improve traffic flow by offering drivers a choice between free general-purpose lanes and tolled lanes that typically move faster. These lanes use dynamic pricing, where toll rates change based on traffic conditions to manage demand.

2. Transportation Financing:

• SRTA provides financial resources for transportation infrastructure projects. It manages programs like GARVEE Bonds (Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicles), which allow the state to borrow money for road and bridge projects based on future federal transportation funding.
• The agency also oversees TIFIA (Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act) loans, offering low-interest loans for large transportation projects.

3. MARTA Funding Oversight:

• SRTA oversees a portion of the funding for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), ensuring that funds from the state’s transportation program are used efficiently.

4. Partnership with GRTA:

• SRTA works closely with the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA), which focuses on regional transportation planning and development. This partnership ensures coordination in improving the overall transportation system in the Atlanta metropolitan area and beyond.

5. Peach Pass:

• SRTA manages the Peach Pass system, which is used for toll payments on the Georgia Express Lanes and in other partner states with toll roads. Peach Pass is an electronic toll-collection system that allows drivers to seamlessly pay tolls without stopping.
• In essence, SRTA is crucial in developing, financing, and managing Georgia’s transportation infrastructure, helping to reduce congestion and provide more efficient travel options throughout the state.