About Atlanta Regional Commission
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) is a regional planning and intergovernmental coordination agency that serves the 10-county Atlanta region. The ARC was established in 1947 as a way to address the challenges of rapid growth and development in the region. Today, it continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the Atlanta metropolitan area.
One of the primary functions of the ARC is to develop and implement comprehensive plans for land use, transportation, water resources, and other critical infrastructure needs. These plans are designed to promote sustainable growth and development while preserving natural resources and enhancing quality of life for residents.
In addition to its planning activities, the ARC also provides a wide range of services to local governments throughout the region. These services include technical assistance on issues such as zoning, economic development, environmental protection, and public safety.
Another important role played by the ARC is intergovernmental coordination. As an umbrella organization representing multiple counties and municipalities within its jurisdictional boundaries, it serves as a forum for collaboration among local governments on issues that affect all residents of the region.
The ARC also works closely with state agencies such as Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), Georgia Department Of Economic Development (GDEcD) etc., federal agencies like Federal Transit Administration(FTA), Federal Highway Administration(FHA) etc., private sector organizations like Metro Atlanta Chamber(MAC), Council For Quality Growth(CQG) etc., non-profit organizations like Livable Buckhead(LB), Trees Atlanta(TA) etc., academic institutions like Georgia Tech(GT), Emory University(EU) etc., community groups like Neighborhood Planning Units(NPUs).
One example where this coordination has been particularly effective is in addressing transportation challenges facing metro Atlanta. Through partnerships with GDOT , FTA , FHA , CQG , MAC , GT , EU & other stakeholders across sectors & jurisdictions; The ARC has helped develop innovative solutions such as managed lanes on highways & express bus service along major corridors which have improved mobility options for commuters while reducing congestion on roads.
Overall, The Atlanta Regional Commission plays an essential role in shaping both present & future landscape across various domains including but not limited to land use planning; transportation infrastructure; water resource management; environmental protection measures; economic development initiatives aimed at creating jobs opportunities within communities throughout metro-Atlanta area . Its work helps ensure that this vibrant region continues to thrive while maintaining its unique character & identity over time.