Traffic Enforcement Takes a New Turn in Old Hickory
Old Hickory, Tenn. – In a lively community discussion that has caught the attention of many residents, it seems the need for increased traffic enforcement is finally being recognized. A recent spike in traffic stops has emerged following a call for action from a local council member who felt that speeding was becoming a critical issue in Davidson County.
Significant Increase in Traffic Stops
Data from the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) revealed an impressive nearly 60% increase in traffic stops just last week. The number jumped from 496 to 791 stops, indicating that officials are starting to take the concerns surrounding speeding seriously. Councilmember Jeff Eslick, who represents Metro’s 11th District—covering Old Hickory and Hermitage—has been vocal about his observations concerning the dangers of speeding on local roads.
Community Safety at the Forefront
Eslick expressed his dedication to making Davidson County a safer place for all drivers and pedestrians. “We really need to make it safe for all 526 miles of Davidson County,” he remarked. He emphasized the importance of accountability from all parties involved, including the police department, while also crediting their efforts in increasing visibility and enforcement.
Collaborative Efforts with Police
Expressing gratitude for the collaboration with MNPD, Eslick personally thanked Chief John Drake and Captain Raymond Jones for their support in ramping up traffic enforcement. His vision includes boosting police presence not only on major streets but also on side streets where speeding has been a recurring issue. “There are other ways to slow people down, but the most effective way is to make sure you have a good police presence,” he noted.
A Growing Concern for Pedestrian Safety
Pedestrian safety is another prominent issue on the minds of many residents. With dozens of pedestrian fatalities reported in traffic accidents in 2024, the message from Eslick is resonating. He shared, “The top two emails I get—one is about how to slow speeders down, and the second is how do I get traffic calming for my neighborhood.” It’s clear that the community not only wants action but also tangible results in terms of safety.
Community Support and Further Resources
The conversation surrounding traffic safety has sparked interest from other Metro council members as well. Eslick explained, “I’m getting support from people outside this district who want this same thing in their neighborhood.” This suggests that the push for more traffic enforcement might lead to a broader movement across Nashville as residents unite for a common cause: feeling safe on the roads.
The Path Forward
As the discussions progress, Eslick is looking to advocate for additional resources, stating, “We could double the number of traffic officers in the traffic division, and that wouldn’t be enough. But it would certainly make a dent in it.” The hope is that with a more robust police presence and innovative traffic calming measures, the streets can be made safer for everyone.
In Closing
Community safety is more than just a talking point; it requires action and collaboration. With Old Hickory stepping into the spotlight over these critical issues, it’s clear the residents are rallying together to advocate for a safer environment. As traffic enforcement efforts ramp up, there’s hope that Nashville’s roads will not only be safer but also more welcoming to all who travel them.
