WILL THE PROJECTED ONE MILLION NEW NASHVILLE RESIDENTS FORCE IMPROVEMENTS TO PUBLIC TRANSIT AND ROADWAY INFRASTRUCTURE?
Nashville is one of the most booming metropolitan areas in the nation, and our city is expected to have an increased population of one million by 2040. All these new residents moving to our city is a great thing for culture and the economy, but what effect will it have on our roadways?
Unfortunately, the down side of living in a thriving city that is expanding quickly is that the roadways and public transportation may not quite be ready to handle all the increased traffic. When roadways are congested and public transportation is pushed to the limit, car and truck accidents may increase. So what is Nashville’s plan to alleviate some of these potential traffic problems?
$6 BILLION REGIONAL TRANSIT PLAN SET TO IMPROVE RAIL SYSTEM
All Nashville residents know that our current rail system leaves something to be desired. However, the Regional Transportation Authority just adopted plans for a $5.97 billion new transit system. This transit system would serve 10 counties throughout middle Tennessee, but would take 25 years to fully complete. While some would rather see a plan that is less expensive that would be finished earlier, this could be an important solution to traffic problems for the long-term future of our area.
TENNESSEE DOT PUSHING FOR GREATER ROADWAY INFRASTRUCTURE
TDOT Commissioner John Schroer is seeking funding of approximately $11 billion for a variety of different transportation projects across the state. Noting the fact that transportation drives our state’s economy, Schroer spoke to business leaders and elected officials about the importance of structural changes to the roadways for the state’s long-term future. He is hoping the legislature addresses the need for increased funding in its upcoming session.
LYFT RIDE HAILING APP SET TO EXPAND ITS NASHVILLE TRANSPORTATION PRESENCE
Lyft has opened an office in Nashville, and it is projected to employ over 500 new workers. This is greater than expected, and the city is excited to welcome the ride hailing app expansion to cover the immediate gaps between the public transportation as it now stands. Additionally, earlier this year the legislature passed new insurance requirements for ride hailing apps that require the vehicles to have one million dollars’ insurance coverage when passengers are in the car. This is important to protect customers and drivers alike in the event of an accident. The expansion coupled with the new insurance law is a boost to Nashville residents and tourists who already rely heavily on ride sharing apps to get around town.
Stan Davis, personal injury lawyer and founder of The Law Office of Stanly A. Davis, regularly represents drivers and passengers injured in car, truck and motorcycle accidents in the greater Nashville area. Stan also assists taxi cab drivers as well as Uber and Lyft drivers when they are involved in car wrecks.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11