News Summary
Nashville’s Department of Transportation has announced plans for 25 new traffic calming projects aimed at improving safety for pedestrians and non-drivers. This initiative is the result of over 600 resident submissions, highlighting community concerns about speeding and safety. Features such as speed cushions and narrowed streets are expected to enhance neighborly interactions while prioritizing the safety of vulnerable users. Community involvement will be essential through meetings and a ballot system to gauge support for each project.
Exciting News for Nashville: 25 New Traffic Calming Projects on the Way!
Nashville is on the brink of a big change as the Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT) has just unveiled its plans for 25 new traffic calming projects. This initiative is part of their Neighborhood Street Traffic Calming Program, and it’s designed to make our streets oh-so-much safer for everyone—especially those who prefer to walk, bike, or play outside.
Taking Community Feedback Seriously
What’s truly remarkable about these new projects is how they came to be. NDOT received more than 600 submissions from residents eager to improve their neighborhoods. After careful consideration, the department handpicked 25 projects, all with the aim of lowering traffic speeds and enhancing street accommodations for non-drivers—like kids playing in the front yard or community members out for a stroll.
It’s clear that local voices are being heard! NDOT examined a variety of factors when deciding which projects to include, such as vehicular speed, traffic volume, and most importantly, the needs of vulnerable users—think children, seniors, and people with disabilities. Plus, the department kept an eye on how close these roads are to parks, schools, libraries, and community centers.
What to Expect: Traffic Calming Features
So what exactly will these traffic calming projects look like? Residents can expect to see various changes, such as speed cushions that gently slow down vehicles, narrowed street sections that create a more intimate atmosphere, and perhaps even charming traffic circles at key intersections. These measures are scientifically proven to work—data shows that speed cushions alone can lower vehicle speeds by an impressive 31% once implemented!
Building Community Together
Before anything is set in stone, NDOT is committed to collaborating with local council members and neighborhood organizations. Community meetings will be held where residents can gather to discuss the potential project designs, sharing their insights and concerns. After gauging community input, NDOT turns to an online ballot system for homeowners to give their final stamp of approval. Each project needs at least 66% support to move forward, ensuring that everyone in the neighborhood has a say.
Nashville residents have clearly been vocal about their concerns. For instance, individuals on Bridgecrest Drive have expressed worries about speeding cars and the dangers posed to children playing outside. This kind of feedback is exactly what NDOT aims to address with these new initiatives.
A Growing Need for Traffic Calmness
It’s heartening to know that since the beginning of 2023, there’s been a whopping 19.5% increase in new traffic calming applications! As Nashville continues to grow, it’s more important than ever to prioritize safety, especially in residential neighborhoods where families thrive.
The next chance for community members to propose new projects will be from September 3 to September 16, 2024. This window presents an excellent opportunity for residents who want to make a difference in their local streets.
Ongoing Efforts and Reassessment
NDOT currently juggles around 50 traffic calming projects at any given time, but it doesn’t stop there. They are always open to feedback and willing to reassess installed measures if they aren’t performing to expectations. For example, one street, Blackman Road, saw an unexpected increase in speed after measures were added. NDOT is actively working to improve the situation in that area by reassessing signage and involving law enforcement.
Safety is a shared responsibility and ongoing conversation in communities across Nashville. With keen oversight and community input, these new traffic calming projects stand to make our beloved city a safer, more pedestrian-friendly place to live.
So, get ready, Nashville! The streets are about to get a lot friendlier.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Nashville Approves $527 Million Plan for Safer Streets
Additional Resources
- WSMV: Nashville Announces New Traffic Calming Projects
- WKRN: Nashville Traffic New Calming Projects
- Tennessean: Nashville Council Police NDOT Improved Traffic Enforcement
- News Channel 5: 25 Additional Streets for Nashville’s Traffic Calming Project
- Nashville Scene: Nashville Pedestrian Safety
- Wikipedia: Traffic Calming
