Nashville Struggles with Safety Concerns Along the Cumberland River
Nashville, Tennessee, has recently seen a troubling rise in incidents along the Cumberland River, as emergency responders dealt with multiple cases involving both drownings and near misses this year. The River has captured public attention, particularly due to the tragic death of Riley Strain, a 22-year-old tourist who drowned in March. This incident has sparked discussions about the safety measures along the waterway, as well as concerns for the unhoused population near the river.
Growing Concerns
The recent incidents surrounding the Cumberland River have raised questions about the safety of the area, especially along the banks where numerous accidents have taken place. Strain’s disappearance quickly attracted media attention, drawing local and national focus on the dangers posed by the waterway. In March, while searching for Strain, emergency services discovered the body of an unidentified man believed to be in his 30s. This followed another alarming incident where a man fell down an embankment but was fortunately rescued by first responders.
The list of unfortunate events continued. In June, the body of Toby Douglas, a 48-year-old man, was recovered from the river. In July, a woman visiting Nashville had a near-brush with danger, found safely on the riverbank in the same area from which Riley Strain fell. These incidents, though rare, have highlighted the potential hazards along the Cumberland River.
Lack of Data on Drownings
Despite the alarming nature of these events, data concerning the extent of drownings or deaths in the Cumberland River is difficult to obtain. Multiple local agencies, including the Metro Nashville Police Department and the Nashville Fire Department, do not keep a comprehensive list of bodies found in the river. Each time a body is discovered, the MNPD issues a press release, but there is no unified record of fatal incidents occurring over the years.
District 19 Metro Council member Jacob Kupin has been actively addressing safety concerns along the riverfront. While working on a resolution aimed at improving the area, he suggested it was important for the community to take a proactive approach to prevent further tragedies, especially during the search for Strain. Following the death of Strain and the subsequent discoveries, Kupin initiated efforts to propose measures aimed at enhancing safety along the riverbank.
Policy Changes in Motion
The Metro Council voted to advance a resolution that calls for a report on how to improve “safety, security, and cleanliness” along the riverfront, which is due back to the council by March 8, 2025, marking a year since Strain’s death. This effort aims to involve multiple Metro departments in order to create a collaborative approach towards managing the riverfront more effectively.
Kupin expressed his serious sentiment regarding the tragic incidents, stating, “I think anybody that is falling in the river and perishing is a tragic, tragic situation.” To help mitigate risks, he is working alongside the Metro Parks Department to explore solutions such as fencing along problem areas from which people have fallen into the river.
Future Developments in Downtown Nashville
Amid these tragic circumstances, there is an ongoing revitalization effort surrounding the riverfront, particularly with new development projects including a potential new stadium for the Tennessee Titans and the reconstruction of Second Avenue following a bombing incident in December 2020. Kupin mentioned that these developments present a fresh opportunity to enhance the riverfront experience, aiming to attract more local visitors and tourists to enjoy the area.
“We’re making a lot of efforts right now on Second Avenue and First and the riverfront to activate that part of downtown,” Kupin said, noting the commitment to improving safety along the waterfront is essential for making it more accessible.
Addressing Homelessness Near the River
A critical aspect of the resolution also involves addressing homelessness near the river. Kupin has highlighted that it is vital to move individuals experiencing homelessness to suitable housing solutions instead of merely relocating them from place to place. The city is expected to examine encampments along the riverfront, as well as communities at Fort Nashboro, aiming to connect individuals with necessary resources.
Conclusion
As Nashville continues to grapple with incidents related to the Cumberland River, the call for enhanced safety measures resonates with many. The tragic events surrounding the river have opened up crucial conversations about community safety, accessibility, and support for local residents. The city is keen to ensure that the riverside remains a safe and welcoming place for both families and tourists, as they enjoy the scenic beauty of Nashville.
