Nashville’s $3.1 Billion Transit Plan Faces Voter Decision in Referendum

Nashville Voters Face Critical Transit Referendum

Nashville, get ready to make your voice heard! This Tuesday, residents will cast their votes on a significant transportation plan worth $3.1 billion aimed at enhancing the city’s bus system, sidewalks, traffic signals, and much more. The proposal, known as the Choose How You Move improvement plan, comes straight from the office of Mayor Freddie O’Connell, and it will be tucked away at the bottom of the Davidson County ballot.

Polling Details

So, how do you prepare for this voting day? Polls open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.! Make sure to check your polling location by visiting nashville.gov. Knowledge is power, especially when you’re heading to the polls!

Understanding the Referendum

Now, if you flip your ballot over, you’ll find a brief 250-word summary explaining the Choose How You Move transit plan which will allow you to vote either “For” or “Against” the proposal. But before we get into the nitty-gritty, it’s crucial to know that this plan suggests increasing the sales tax in Davidson County by half a cent, bringing the combined state and local sales tax to 9.75%.

The Financial Breakdown

Here’s where it gets interesting: Currently, Nashvillians pay 6.25% in sales tax on most groceries, excluding prepared foods. If approved, the proposed increase would bump that rate to 6.75%. This tax hike is expected to cover around 40% of the plan’s total cost, while the rest will come from fares, bonds, and state and federal funding. For context, neighboring counties like Williamson, Wilson, and Rutherford have already adopted a 9.75% sales tax rate.

How Will the Tax Affect You?

With the tax climb, an average adult could see their monthly spending increase by about $4, while a family of four might shell out an additional $10. So, if your budget is a little tight, this is something to keep in mind!

Plan Details: The Four Categories

The transportation plan is categorized into four main areas: Service, signals, sidewalks, and safety. The expansion of WeGo bus service is the biggest ticket item within the proposal. This includes newer routes, more neighborhood transit centers, and even the introduction of 24/7 service for the first time!

Check Out the Interactive Map

Want to see how these improvements will pan out around you? Choose How You Move has rolled out an interactive map that showcases proposed transportation enhancements sorted by neighborhood. Particularly, traffic signal upgrades aim to attract attention along popular roads nearing downtown. New WeGo routes will open up additional connections between neighborhoods, helping you get around more easily.

Catching Up on Dickerson Pike

To illustrate how these changes might unfold, a closer look has been taken at Dickerson Pike, one of Nashville’s busiest corridors. This analysis uncovers how the WeGo bus system currently functions, highlighting the need for improvement and the potential positive impact of the proposed enhancements.

Final Thoughts

The Choose How You Move plan isn’t just about improving buses and sidewalks; it’s about paving a smoother path for everyone in Nashville. If you’re considering how it all affects your day-to-day life, this referendum is important. It’s time to roll up those sleeves, gather your thoughts, and be a part of Nashville’s future. No matter what you decide, make sure you let your voice be heard!

So, are you ready to make a difference? Get out there on Tuesday and vote!