ATLANTA — Access to Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson could soon be restricted after city council members voted on an ordinance this week. The measure would limit access to anyone who is not an employee, a ticketed passenger or people picking up or dropping someone off.
The reason is to improve security and to reduce loitering by people who are experiencing homelessness.
Some people said the potential change feels like an attack on them.
“I was kicked off the MARTA train because I fell asleep, so I’ve been stuck out here,” said Sterling Hill-Bay, one several people who said they have found what they call a safe haven at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
But, Hill-Bay said they know they are not welcome.
“It’s a double standard. You're kicking me off the train and your sending me here inside of the airport but the airport don’t want me here. It’s like my back is against the wall,” added Hill-Bay.
The Atlanta City Council approved a measure restricting airport access to the general public, only allowing ticketed passengers, employees and those picking up or dropping off passengers to be there.
“We put together a special 60-day task force made up of council people, the airport administration, folks who are vendors and employees at the airport, and we looked at the issues because it’s not just about those who are unhoused. It’s about the safety and security,” said Atlanta City Councilman Michael J. Bond.
Bond said the new ordinance mirrors what has been implemented in both Los Angeles and Baltimore and that the change will help officials better assess who is suppose to be at the airport and who is not.
“If you’re still coming to the airport to meet someone to pick someone up, just be armed with the information of who that person is and what flight they're on. You can come and meet them, you can still help your grandmother at baggage claim, carry her bag,” Bond went on.
Councilwoman Keisha Waites said there are efforts underway to help those being relocated.
“Right now, we’re providing resources and support services to those individuals that are unsheltered and we have an organization in the airport that will be supporting them. The administration and the mayor's office have allocated additional funding to assist with that," Waites said.
Still, Hill-Bay said he’s not optimistic about getting help and he doesn’t have enough to by a MARTA ticket off property.
“What should I do, where should I go,” Hill-Bay said.
The ordinance limiting access to the airport was approved Monday and it has been sent to Mayor Dickens' office for final consideration.