NASHVILLE'S METRO COUNCIL CLEARS "CHOOSE HOW YOU MOVE" TRANSIT PLAN FOR NOVEMBER BALLOT
In a unified move that paves the way for a sweeping transformation of Nashville's transit system, the Metro Council voted unanimously to approve Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s ambitious transportation plan, dubbed "Choose How You Move." The vote means that the referendum will be placed on the November ballot, providing Nashvillians with the decisive vote on the city’s transportation future. The comprehensive plan promises to deliver enhanced sidewalks, a fleet of community transit centers, and an around-the-clock transit system, as reported by WKRN.
Mayor O’Connell’s transportation proposal, totalling an estimated $3 billion in current project costs and accruing annual maintenance costs of about $111,000, represents a substantial investment in Nashville’s infrastructure. As per the plan, the city will witness the addition of 86 miles of sidewalk improvements, 12 community transit centers, and upgrades to 600 intersections. "Council’s strong support for our transportation referendum puts Nashville on the doorstep of a great opportunity," Mayor O’Connell emphasized in a statement captured by WSMV. The initiative aims to leverage local input, with over 66,000 ideas from residents incorporated into the final design.
The funding for this vast undertaking will come from various sources, including federal grants and a proposed 0.5% sales tax surcharge, which will terminate after the transit improvement program’s associated debts are cleared. The program, underlined by Mayor O’Connell's promise to create "walkable neighborhoods" and to alleviate common security concerns, also plans to invest an additional $1 million in security measures at the new North Nashville transit hub. Eric Melcher, spokesperson for WeGo, highlighted the emphasis on security: "It’s our job to be able to respond as best we can," he told WSMV.
Although the capital cost of the proposal stands at $3 billion, a report suggests that, with financing, operational expenses, and other factors considered, the total tax revenue required could lean toward $7 billion over a 15-year period. In a move that directly engages the electorate, Mayor O'Connell is proposing a sales tax increase that translates to an extra quarter for every fifty dollars spent. While this plan addresses the challenges of accommodating a growing population, it is up to the voters this fall to weigh the promised benefits against the financial costs. Critics and proponents alike will have their voices heard when the issue arrives on the ballot come November 5, as noted by WSMV and others reporting on the council's key decision.
https://hoodline.com/2024/07/nashville-s-metro-council-clears-choose-how-you-move-transit-plan-for-november-ballot/