URBAN DESIGN POLICY /
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Nashville's Future Transit System

Blue Network:

Represents the primary routes for rapid transit service, which requires a dedicated lane on those streets so that the transit vehicle’s travel times are not affected by automobile congestion. Blue-dash markings represent the subsequent phase of rapid transit development.

In the initial implementation, rubber-tired transit vehicles would run in the dedicated lane. As ridership grows, Nashville can then add the track, overhead electric wires, and other infrastructure needed to convert to a full BRT or light rail system.

Although MTA buses serve many more routes than are shown here, the blue routes are designated for much more frequent service --every 15 minutes, perhaps even every 10 minutes within the Inner Loop. Routes targeted for early implementation include the corridors that currently boast highest MTA ridership and development intensities: Gallatin Pike/Main Street,
Murfreesboro and Nolensville
Pikes, Charlotte Pike, Metro-
center Boulevard and West
End Avenue/Broadway.

The Plan of Nashville’s vision for the future public transit system. Map, 2004: Raven Hardison

Transfer points would be clustered in the downtown area to ensure that commuters, tourists, and downtown residents can easily access all modes of transit within a few minutes’ walk. Broadway becomes a key axis where numerous routes intersect. It could eventually be traversed by buses on five-minute headways, with “step on, step off” service at each block between the Gulch and Riverfront rail stations.

As of this publication date, MTA is advancing plans to build a new downtown transfer center where passengers will board and depart all regular (non-rapid) bus routes. When city officials select the final site, it will be important to provide easy access between this “local” transfer center and the regional stations planned along Broadway.

Red Network:

Shows regional routes for a commuter rail system, providing service for trips of 40 miles or less.
Major hubs:

(1)downtown/Gulch, where the majority of rail lines convene;
(2)downtown/Riverfront, within easy walking distance of the Coliseum, Second Avenue and other visitor attractions;
(3)East Nashville near the Spring Street/S. Fifth St. intersection.
Future expansion of this network includes intercity passenger rail service connecting Nashville to other large cities such as Atlanta, Birmingham, Knoxville, Memphis, and Louisville.

Green Route:

Extends existing rail lines for a riverfront excursion train. Unless plans change for future land use along this portion of the Cumberland, the line would not be part of the proposed regional commuter system, but developed separately as a tourist-oriented enterprise.

Regional Transit:

The Plan of Nashville envisions extending the Regional Transit Authority’s (RTA) long-range plan for commuter rail to intercity service. The Red lines indicate the regional rail system, with intermodal transit hubs market by red dots. Note the rail connection to the airport.