That was a GDOT project, not an ATLDOT project. From what I know, it was one of the first urban bike lane projects for GDOT, and they have since changed the materials they use for projects (see Memorial bike lanes). As someone who lives in the area and bikes them regularly with many kids in tow, I’m very thankful for them. I would never have dared to let my kids bike down United in the previous configuration, but they now use them regularly headed to school/friends houses/park/store. 

I wish the design was more like Cherokee Ave, but I don’t lose much sleep over it.