Atlanta to debut autonomous Glydways transit system near airport

New on-demand electric vehicle network aims to provide affordable transit option for South Fulton communities

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Atlanta is set to debut the world's first Glydways system, an autonomous, electric transit network designed to move passengers along dedicated roadways near Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The system, which is expected to launch by the end of 2026, will provide an on-demand, Uber-like service at the price of public transportation, aiming to improve transit access and economic development in the underserved South Fulton area.

Why it matters

The Glydways system represents a novel approach to public transit, utilizing small self-driving electric vehicles on dedicated roadways rather than traditional rail or bus infrastructure. Project leaders hope this more flexible and affordable model can expand transit options and spur economic growth in South Fulton, an area with limited public transportation access.

The details

Unlike rail-based systems, Glydways uses small, self-driving electric vehicles that travel on specially built roadways. Riders request trips on demand, similar to a rideshare, and travel directly to their destination without intermediate stops. The system's infrastructure is designed to be highly adaptable, allowing for easier expansion compared to fixed rail lines.

  • The first Glydways route is expected to launch by the end of 2026.
  • Planning for the project has been underway for nearly eight years.

The players

Gerald McDowell

Executive director of the ATL Airport Community Improvement District.

Chris Reilly

Chief commercial officer of Glydways.

Steve DeWitt

CEO of ACS Infrastructure, which is overseeing construction of the Glydways system.

MARTA

The regional transit authority that has been working with Glydways officials to explore how the new technology could integrate with or expand the existing transit network.

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What they’re saying

“This isn't a train, and it's not a bus. What it does is provide an Uber-like service to public transportation at the price of public transportation.”

— Gerald McDowell, Executive director of the ATL Airport Community Improvement District (cbsnews.com)

“You don't have to stop at someone else's stop by stop along the way. You basically accelerate once, and then you decelerate once when you arrive at your destination.”

— Chris Reilly, Chief commercial officer of Glydways (cbsnews.com)

“It's incredibly expandable. We don't have tracks like a transit line would. We can actually build a roadway section, if you will, with asphalt or whatever. And it can ride along those, so it's quite expandable.”

— Steve DeWitt, CEO of ACS Infrastructure (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

The Glydways system is expected to begin operations by the end of 2026, initially operating five days a week, eight hours a day. Officials are working with MARTA to explore how the new technology could eventually integrate with or expand the region's existing transit network.

The takeaway

The Glydways system represents a novel approach to public transit, utilizing autonomous electric vehicles on dedicated roadways to provide an affordable, on-demand transportation option for underserved communities. If successful, the model could serve as a blueprint for other cities looking to expand transit access and spur economic development through innovative mobility solutions.