Writer: Chérie Lynn Canada
3 min read April 2024 — In a move aimed at transforming the city’s transportation network, Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell recently unveiled his plan to address longstanding issues related to traffic congestion, pedestrian safety, and public transit. The proposal, dubbed “Choose How You Move,” seeks to dramatically reinforce Nashville’s transportation system and enhance the quality of life for its residents through a more robust transportation mix.
The initial price tag for the plan stands at $3.1 billion. To fund these improvements, Mayor O’Connell has proposed a half-cent sales tax increase. According to documents released last Friday, the system will cost an additional $111 million to operate each year. Those expenses could add $1 billion or more to the initial 15-year price tag of the plan.
“Obtaining a dedicated funding source for improving Nashville’s transit and mobility network is not the end of our conversation, it is the beginning,” Jessica Dauphin, president and CEO of the Transit Alliance of Middle Tennessee, told Invest:. “While Nashville’s transportation network is center stage today, the efforts to connect the region are just beginning.”
READ MORE: Nashville Mayor O’Connell’s transit referendum takes shape
Mayor O’Connell’s plan aims to tackle transit-related issues head-on. The proposal includes the addition of bus rapid transit (BRT) on busy corridors such as Murfreesboro Pike, Nolensville Pike, and Gallatin Pike. BRT, which synchronizes with traffic signals, promises commuters faster and more efficient bus service.
The plan also calls for the construction of 86 miles of sidewalks, which addresses a long-standing complaint from residents. This significant investment will increase the number of walkable neighborhoods by 50% and improve pedestrian safety.
Acknowledging that not everyone takes the bus, O’Connell emphasizes easing traffic congestion for all. His proposal includes modernizing 592 traffic signals using technology to manage traffic flow. A new traffic management center will analyze congestion patterns and adjust real-time signal timings.
The mayor’s plan will be assessed and requires Metro Council approval before a referendum is held on Nov. 5.
This is not the first time Nashville voters have been asked to vote on a massive transit improvement plan. In May 2018, a transit push called “Let’s Move Nashville” was shot down at the polls by a 64-36 margin, according to TransitCenter.
The 2018 transit plan faced strong opposition from certain groups, leading to its rejection by voters. Mayor O’Connell’s plan, designed with community input, aims to address the concerns raised during the previous referendum. It seeks to build consensus and gain broader public support.
Nashville, known for its vibrant music scene and growing economy, has faced persistent transportation challenges. The lack of dedicated funding for mass transit has led to clogged highways, longer commutes, and hindered growth. Unlike many other major U.S. cities, Nashville has yet to access federal grants for transportation upgrades due to this funding gap.
Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s transportation improvement plan represents a bold step toward a more efficient, accessible, and sustainable Nashville. In November, voters will decide whether the plan comes to fruition or fizzles out like the last one.
“Let’s build a Nashville that works for Nashvillians,” said Mayor O’Connell in the proposal.
Top image via Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp.
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