Atlanta's Public Restrooms Are Often Locked or Closed

Topic: Environment

Researchers at Georgia State University found that over half of publicly accessible restrooms in Atlanta are unavailable to the public. The study examined 262 locations and discovered that 55% had restrooms that were not open to everyone, even during normal business hours.

A recent study by researchers at Georgia State University's School of Public Health found that more than half of publicly accessible restrooms in key areas of Atlanta are unavailable to the public. The study, published in PLOS Water, examined public restroom availability in 15 areas across Atlanta, including downtown, transit hubs, parks, and neighborhoods frequented by tourists.

The researchers used a broad definition of publicly accessible restrooms that included both government-funded facilities and restrooms located in private businesses such as gas stations, restaurants, and retail stores. Even with this expansive definition, more than half of all facilities identified were inaccessible when audited by a team of faculty and student researchers.

The study found that privately funded bathrooms were more common than government-funded bathrooms, comprising 57% and 43% of locations, respectively. The audits were conducted during normal business hours, which means actual restroom availability is likely even lower during evenings, weekends, and holidays.

The researchers shared their preliminary findings with city leaders, who later announced the installation of 12 Throne Labs public restrooms ahead of the World Cup.

Why It Matters

This study matters because it highlights the importance of accessible sanitation infrastructure in cities. As Atlanta continues to grow and attract major events, public restroom access should be viewed as essential infrastructure for the health, well-being, and dignity of residents and visitors.

Key Facts

• Over half (55%) of publicly accessible restrooms in key areas of Atlanta are unavailable to the public.
• The study examined 262 locations across 15 areas in Atlanta.
• Privately funded bathrooms were more common than government-funded bathrooms, comprising 57% and 43% of locations, respectively.
• The researchers shared their findings with city leaders, leading to the installation of 12 new public restrooms ahead of the World Cup.
• The study highlights the need for cities to clarify responsibility for public restroom infrastructure, dedicate funding for maintenance and expansion, and develop sanitation standards for major events.

Key Terms

PLOS Water

A peer-reviewed journal that publishes research on water-related topics.

Implications

This study matters because it highlights the importance of accessible sanitation infrastructure in cities. As Atlanta continues to grow and attract major events, public restroom access should be viewed as essential infrastructure for the health, well-being, and dignity of residents and visitors.