WEHO Social Hosts Mayor's Office to Discuss Nashville's Transit Future
Residents of Wedgewood Houston will have a unique opportunity to learn about Nashville's proposed Transit Improvement Program this Tuesday, October 8th, when WEHO Social welcomes representatives from the mayor's office and the Choose How You Move team. This informative session comes ahead of the November 5 citywide vote on a comprehensive plan to revolutionize Nashville's transportation infrastructure.
Event Details
Tuesday, October 8th
6:00 PM - Social hour
6:30 PM - Program begins
Location: The Ranch at Jackalope Brewery, Wedgewood Houston
Don't miss this chance to engage with city officials and fellow community members in a relaxed, neighborhood setting. Come early to socialize and enjoy the unique atmosphere of The Ranch at Jackalope Brewery.
The Transit Improvement Program: A Closer Look
The proposed program, if approved by voters, promises to address several key areas of Nashville's transportation needs:
1. Sidewalk Expansion: The plan includes adding or upgrading 86 miles of sidewalks, completing the entire Priority Sidewalk Network. This expansion significantly outpaces the current rate of 6.5 miles of sidewalks constructed last year.
2. Traffic Signal Modernization: Nearly 600 traffic signals across Nashville will be updated, representing about two-thirds of the city's intersections. This modernization is crucial, as some of Nashville's current traffic signals are operating on outdated technology.
3. Enhanced Public Transportation: The program aims to provide 24/7/365 service with doubled frequency on major routes. This includes 54 miles of All-Access Corridors, 12 transit centers, and 17 park & rides, significantly improving the reach and reliability of public transit in Nashville.
4. Safety Improvements: The plan includes redesigning 35 intersections, adding 35 miles of bikeways, and upgrading 285 bus stops. These changes are designed to reduce injuries and deaths, providing Nashvillians with safer streets for all modes of transportation.
Financial Implications and Timeline
The program's estimated capital cost is $3,096,000,000, with annual operating and maintenance costs projected at approximately $111,000,000. Funding will come from a combination of federal grants, transportation system fares, debt, and a 0.5% sales tax surcharge.
For the average resident, this translates to an additional 25 cents per $50 spent, or about $6 per month for most households. It's worth noting that nearly 60% of the sales tax is expected to be paid by visitors to Nashville.
The implementation timeline spans 15 years, with immediate improvements in public transportation service starting in the first year, and gradual rollout of infrastructure upgrades over the following years.
WEHO Social's Perspective
Chad DiDonato, representing WEHO Social, encourages residents to attend the October 8th event and learn more about the program. He states:
"This referendum represents a pivotal moment for Nashville, and especially for our Wedgewood Houston neighborhood. I believe it's not just good for Nashville as a whole, but great for WEHO specifically. The proposed improvements in public transit and pedestrian infrastructure align perfectly with our community's needs. By enhancing connectivity and safety, this plan could significantly boost our neighborhood's livability and economic vitality. I urge all residents to come to the October Social on Tuesday October 8th, ask questions, and see for themselves how this program could positively shape our future."
Community Input and Next Steps
The proposed plan is the result of extensive community engagement, incorporating over 66,000 pieces of input and drawing from more than 70 plans developed over the last decade. This underscores the city's commitment to creating a transportation solution that truly reflects the needs and desires of Nashville's residents.
As the November 5 vote approaches, it's crucial for WEHO residents to be well-informed about the potential impacts and benefits of this program. The WEHO Social event with the mayor's office and the Choose How You Move team provides an excellent opportunity to gain deeper insights and have your questions answered.
Don't miss this chance to engage in shaping Nashville's transportation future. Join us at The Ranch at Jackalope Brewery this Tuesday, October 8th. Arrive at 6:00 PM to socialize with your neighbors, and be ready for the program to begin at 6:30 PM. Be part of this important community discussion and help shape the future of transportation in Wedgewood Houston and Nashville as a whole.
For more information on the "Choose How You Move" program, visit:
Let's work together to move Nashville forward!