In a significant move to address the city’s escalating transportation challenges, Mayor Freddie O’Connell has initiated the “Choose How You Move” program, aiming to revolutionize Nashville’s transportation landscape. With the city’s rapid growth, the initiative seeks to improve sidewalks, traffic signals, public service, and overall safety, reflecting O’Connell’s campaign promise to transform plans into actionable solutions.
Over the past decade, Nashville has conducted more than 70 transportation-related studies, gathering over 66,000 inputs from residents, showcasing the community’s strong support for enhancing transportation infrastructure. A recent survey by Imagine Nashville found that 74% of the population strongly prioritizes investment in city-wide public transportation, indicating widespread community backing for O’Connell’s initiative.
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The Mayor’s administration has been proactive, holding initial meetings with the Community Advisory Committee, Technical Advisory Committee, and Metro Council members to discuss the program. These committees are exploring various strategies to enhance transportation efficiency along key corridors such as Murfreesboro Pike and Gallatin Pike, with a focus on integrating technology, land use, and affordable housing considerations near transit centers.
Central to the program is the emphasis on community and technical feedback, with committees sharing insights on how transportation improvements can enhance quality of life, foster a sense of belonging, and provide greater independence and opportunity for Nashville’s residents. The initiative also aligns with Nashville’s Vision Zero goals, with Mayor O’Connell and Metro investing significantly in sidewalk construction and transportation safety initiatives.
The push for a dedicated transportation funding source could unlock federal resources, amplifying Nashville’s capacity to upgrade its transportation infrastructure to match its growth. This effort is supported by key local figures, including Nashville State President Dr. Shanna L. Jackson and Metro Council Member Mike Cortese, highlighting the broad-based support for the initiative.
As the plan moves towards a formal unveiling, Mayor O’Connell is committed to extensive community engagement, ensuring that Nashville’s residents have a voice in shaping the future of their city’s transportation. With the potential to significantly enhance mobility, safety, and quality of life, the “Choose How You Move” program represents a pivotal moment in Nashville’s development, promising a more connected and accessible city for all its residents.
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