Buckhead: Where Sustainability, Mobility, and Community Flourish for Residents and Businesses Alike
Two years ago, Livable Buckhead launched the Buc, our innovative on-demand shuttle service, and it’s been a game-changer ever since. Designed to help people move quickly and sustainably around Buckhead’s vibrant commercial district, the Buc has hit a new high with 950 weekly trips — three times more than when we first started. Whether connecting to MARTA stations, popping over to the grocery store, or grabbing lunch at Buckhead Village, residents and visitors are embracing the Buc in record numbers.
So, what’s behind this surge in ridership? It’s not just about convenience; it’s about sustainability, mobility, and community engagement — key values that make Buckhead a great place to live, work, and thrive.
At Livable Buckhead, we believe that the very things residents love about our community are the same features that attract forward-thinking businesses. In today’s competitive business environment, companies are increasingly selective about where they set up shop. It’s not just about square footage — they’re looking for communities that prioritize innovation, employee well-being, and long-term growth. And Buckhead checks all the boxes.
A Mobility Solution that Benefits Everyone
The Buc shuttle service is one of Buckhead’s shining stars, offering a sustainable way to get around while reducing traffic and pollution. It’s funded by the Buckhead Community Improvement District and offers free rides to and from MARTA’s Buckhead and Lenox stations, with other trips costing just $3. The service runs from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, with extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays for evening commuters. And for those who’d like even more flexibility, we’re working on expanding the service to weekends and residential neighborhoods.
This kind of microtransit not only enhances mobility for Buckhead’s residents, but it’s also an attractive feature for businesses that want to offer employees easy commuting options. In fact, about 60% of Buc trips are taken to or from MARTA stations, making it an ideal solution for cutting down on short car trips in a district known for traffic congestion.
As Denise Starling, Livable Buckhead’s executive director, notes, “The Buc is leading the way for a car-free lifestyle in the heart of Buckhead. As walkability, bikeability, and smart mobility options like the Buc continue to grow, we’re making it simpler than ever for people to experience all that Buckhead has to offer without the need for a car.”
Creating an Environment That Attracts Residents and Businesses
But we know that mobility is just part of the picture. Buckhead’s sustainability initiatives are another key factor making it a hotspot for both residents and businesses. Our ongoing efforts, like the PATH400 greenway, provide everyone with accessible green spaces that promote healthy, active lifestyles. Whether you’re an employee looking for a scenic lunchtime walk or a resident taking the family out for a weekend stroll, PATH400 makes Buckhead a more attractive place to live and work.
Sustainability has become a priority for companies in recent years, and Buckhead’s green credentials — from initiatives like microtransit to greenway development — align with the values of businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility. And it’s clear that these features appeal to residents as well. According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2023 Community & Transportation Preferences Survey, 79% of people said that being within walking distance of shops, parks, and amenities is “very or somewhat important” in deciding where to live. Buckhead, with its growing network of trails, parks, and transit options, is perfectly positioned to meet this demand.
Building a Vibrant Social Environment
While walkability and mobility are critical, building a thriving community also depends on creating a rich cultural environment. As Buckhead continues to develop more residential high-rises within its commercial core, we’re seeing new opportunities for community engagement. From our weekly run-club meetings to the annual Party on the PATH, events are bringing people together and creating the strong social connections that make Buckhead a place where people want to settle down.
“The Buc is just one piece of the bigger picture,” says Starling. “We’re creating a community where residents, employees, and businesses alike thrive. From cultural events and sustainability efforts to a simple walk along PATH400, Buckhead is a place where work and life come together effortlessly.”
Looking Ahead
As we move forward, Livable Buckhead is committed to expanding the Buc’s reach and enhancing the sustainability and mobility features that make our district special. We envision a future where weekend shuttle service, more evening hours, and greater connectivity to residential neighborhoods make it even easier to get around. And we’re not stopping at just transit – we’re looking to develop even more green spaces, support local businesses, and foster the sense of community that makes Buckhead a sought-after destination.
Whether you’re a resident enjoying a car-free lifestyle or a business seeking a community that aligns with your values, Buckhead is the place to be. Together, we’re building a sustainable, connected, and thriving neighborhood that meets the needs of everyone who calls it home.
