On Wednesday morning at the Cobb Galleria Centre, the Metro Atlanta Northern Crescent Transit Summit will be co-hosted by the chambers of commerce from Cobb, Gwinnett and north Fulton counties, as well as the Council for Quality Growth. It’s the first time the northern suburbs have collectively come together in this way to discuss rail projects and their economic impact for the region.

More than 250 business leaders and elected officials are expected to be on hand to hear from best practice communities and leaders regarding high-profile case studies involving high capacity rail.

The summit will feature speakers that represent the region and two keynote speakers: Pat McCrory, former mayor of Charlotte, N.C., and Steve Banta, CEO of Phoenix METRO Light Rail, who have advocated for, planned and executed successful rail projects.

Cobb Transportation Director Faye DiMassimo is expected to deliver an address explaining the current status of area transportation and traffic projects. Also, Cobb Commission Chairman Tim Lee will be a part of a panel discussion that will include Atlanta Regional Commission Chairman Tad Leithead.

This will be an opportunity to learn details on high capacity transit lines in Cobb, north Fulton and Gwinnett counties that could reduce traffic congestion while strengthening economic development assets in the northern suburbs.

Others expected to speak include Cobb Chamber Chairman Rob Garcia,  Gwinnett County Chairwoman Charlotte Nash, Gwinnett County DOT Director Brian Allen and Georgia DOT Board Member and North Fulton Chamber President Brandon Beach

Individual tickets for Cobb, Gwinnett or North Fulton Chamber members are $40 and $55 for non-members.

The event is scheduled from 7 a.m. to noon. See here for more info.