Action plan looks to improve downtown traffic

This is not breaking news, but traveling into and getting around downtown is horrible.

• No one knows that better than the businesses whose employees and customers have to navigate the congestion daily.

State of play: The Downtown Partnership, a coalition of businesses and residents, collaborated with Metro and the state to unveil a new plan called Connect Downtown. Its goal is to make downtown travel more reliable, more comfortable, faster and safer.

• The partners consider Connect Downtown a 10-year action plan to address getting around the city's entertainment and business district.

Details: The plan suggests five high-level "big moves" to improve downtown travel.

• Among the suggestions, Connect Downtown calls for managing congestion by upgrading signals, converting some streets to one-way and improving traffic for special events.
• It also suggests improving safety by advancing Vision Zero projects on downtown streets. Vision Zero aims to eradicate pedestrian deaths in Nashville.

Of note: One suggestion is to ramp up mass transit options by expanding WeGo bus service on key corridors. This suggestion is noteworthy since Mayor Freddie O'Connell will likely push for a referendum on dedicated funding for mass transit soon.

What he's saying: "With proper coordination, we can chip away at our traffic congestion, improve safety for riders and pedestrians and give dignity to Nashvillians regardless of how they like to move around the city," O'Connell said in a press release.

Worthy of your time: The coalition is also seeking feedback. You can read the full report and offer your feedback on the Connect Downtown website.

• There will also be an open house to discuss the recommendations Wednesday at the Nashville Farmers' Market 5:30-7pm.