As election day approaches–it’s tomorrow, May 1–many are scouring the internet for reliable sources of information on exactly what the plan entails. For those, we have the following tidbits and links. Happy voting!
First, take a look at what’s included in the plan (all of the plan updates, upgrades, and build-outs). From electric buses (about 100 of them!) and paratransit improvements to light rail and a tunnel in downtown, you can read it all here: http://letsmovenashville.com/transit-options/
Then, read about how those improvements will benefit almost the entire county in one way or another here: http://nashvillepeopleproject.com/2018/04/16/how-transit-benefits-all-nashville/
That’s not all. Here are a host of other benefits:
Jobs – “Nashville needs more jobs, more opportunities, and more money coming into Davidson County. Overall, the transit referendum is estimated to create 45,000 annual jobs. This transit plan is what we’ve been asking for.”
Housing – “We’ve got an affordability crisis whether we’ve got transit or not,” Mendes said. “I think having the transit plan gives us more tools to try to maintain mixed income neighborhoods throughout the city.”
Sidewalks/Safety – 282,000 feet of new/improved sidewalks…
AccessRide /Paratransit – “Provides more and better transportation options to our elderly, disabled, youth, and disadvantaged citizens. On-demand technology that enhances AccessRide, MTA’s program to serve riders with disabilities, to ensure eligible riders can easily get to and from transit stops. All they have to do is download an app to request a ride. AccessRide to include real-time information, call-ahead service and same-day schedule availability.”
Affordability (free or reduced fares) – “Reducing cost burdens for existing low- to moderate-income households by providing improved, more efficient and affordable transportation options. Offering free or reduced fares for Nashvillians who are living in poverty, living with a disability, senior citizens, or under the age of 18.” (letsmovenashville.com).
Environment – “Air pollutants and GHGs harm the environment, the economy, and human health. Metro’s Transportation Solution would avoid pollution-based damage to human health and the environment in Davidson County by an estimated $7.2 million annually. The estimated avoided emissions include annual GHG emissions of about 22,235 metric tons of CO2e, which is equivalent to planting over a million trees every year or the electricity use of 3,333 homes for one year. The fact is the transportation sector contributes 37% of the county’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and 85% of the county’s smog. A transit system will keep thousands of new cars off the road, meaning cleaner air for all of us to breathe. This is especially important to our more vulnerable citizens, such as children and the elderly, helping reduce asthma rates and respiratory issues.”