WeGo Related Arrests Amplify Safety Concerns in Light of Nashville’s proposed $6.9B Transit Plan
Safety concerns about Nashville’s proposed $6.9 billion transit plan have been brought into sharp focus following another arrest related to the city’s WeGo bus system. Howard Franklin, the city’s mayor, believes that the mammoth infrastructure project will address some of these security challenges. However, a section of taxpayers and residents are demanding more than just promises before this massive project gets underway.
Existing Security Challenges aboard WeGo buses
In recent weeks, the WeGo bus system, which already spends $2.4 million on contracted security services, has come under scrutiny due to a string of violent incidents. The latest being a case in which a man reportedly harassed and threatened a female passenger with a firearm. This incident, amongst others, has sparked debates on the existing security mechanisms around the bus system, especially with the lack of visible security personnel in key areas such as the downtown bus station.
The Resounding Call for More Effective Security Measures
Safety advocate Ben Cunningham voices the fears and concerns of many when he says that existing problems need to be addressed before considering the expansion of transit centers and making services run round-the-clock. He questions the practicality and safety of having buses operate late into the night in areas like Nolensville Rd without enhancing existing security measures first.
“Ensure the safety of the riders first, before advancing any other plans,” Cunningham stresses. “There’s a huge crime problem here that needs to be fixed. Throwing money at it is not the solution!”
An Ambitious Infrastructure Plan amid Rising Crime Concerns
Meanwhile, Mayor Howard Franklin’s ambitious $6.9 billion transportation improvement proposal has not been received warmly by all. If passed, this plan would see a significant share of the funds being allocated to enhancing local transit systems. However, his assurances of increased security through heightened personnel presence, upgraded technology, and community partnerships has done little to alleviate current safety worries.
Improvements Proposed by the Mayor’s Office
In response to the concerns raised, the mayor’s office released a list of proposed enhancements. These include a potential partnership with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department to establish a dedicated Transit Policing Unit, similar to those in larger cities. The list also features plans for upgraded real-time security systems, including security camera systems in transit centers and on transit vehicles, call boxes, and more. Additionally, proposals also aim at improving street lighting and signage to promote safe travel. Lastly, an ambassador program has been proposed to provide a non-threatening presence in transit centers to connect with people and provide access to social services.
Related Incidents
- Attempted murder charge after WeGo bus driver reportedly stabbed.
- Near-fatal shooting reported near the central WeGo station.
- Man accused of indecent exposure and making sexual threats at WeGo terminal.
With safety of the common citizen at stake, will the proposed $6.9 billion transit plan sufficiently address the mounting security concerns surrounding Nashville’s WeGo bus services? Only time will tell.
