ARC approves $2.5M for rail study
The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) has approved $2.5 million for a feasibility study on a light-rail line connecting Emory with downtown Atlanta and southeast DeKalb County.

The arc-shaped line would link the Clifton Corridor to the Lindbergh MARTA station, south to downtown Atlanta, then east again toward Stonecrest mall in South DeKalb. ARC has recommnded the study be combined with an intown “Belt Line” study that would serve both Fulton and DeKalb counties.

The arc line to Emory has received broad support from business, community and government leaders.

“Thanks to U.S. representatives Cynthia McKinney and John Lewis, senators Max Cleland and Zell Miller, and a strong and determined DeKalb and city of Atlanta coalition, we are one major step closer to obtaining a much-needed public transportation line for our region,” said President Bill Chace.

Betty Willis, associate vice president for governmental and community affairs, said she hopes the study will begin in fiscal year 2003.

Rabid cat bites two in Lullwater Park
A cat that bit two people in Lullwater Park on Jan. 31 has tested positive for rabies.

The DeKalb County Board of Health asks anyone who was either in around the vicinity of the park and was scratched or bitten by an unfamiliar animal seek medical care immediately.

The two people bit by the rabid cat are now receiving appropriate medical treatment.

Area residents who have outdoor pets should observe their animal’s behavior closely. If any pet or wild animal acts unusually nervous or has excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth should contact DeKalb County Animal Control at 404-294-2996 on weekdays and Saturdays or 404-294-2519 evenings and Sundays.