A new program providing free bus rides for economically disadvantaged people has signed up 6,200 Nashville residents about a month after launching.

Why it matters: The Journey Pass program is one of the first projects under Choose How You Move, Mayor Freddie O'Connell's transportation improvement plan funded by a half-cent sales tax.

How it works: Journey Pass is available to people who signed up for Metro social programs, such as food or housing assistance, as well as residents who receive federal SNAP benefits.

• A pass lasts for three years and provides free rides on WeGo buses.
• The O'Connell administration earmarked $14.4 million from Choose How You Move funds for the three-year program.

By the numbers: The 6,200 people who have registered have taken 125,000 fare-free transit trips, a WeGo spokesperson tells Axios.

Zoom out: Getting the word out has been a priority. City officials have hosted 42 registration events.

Flashback: O'Connell marked the first anniversary of the successful ballot measure by introducing two projects last month. In addition to Journey Pass, he unveiled a first-of-its-kind "queue jump" for a bus route in southeast Davidson County.

• As he eyes a likely run for reelection in two years, O'Connell wants to be cheerleader-in-chief for the transportation improvements.

What he's saying: Speaking to reporters Friday, O'Connell noted the free bus program arrived just as residents were missing out on SNAP benefits due to the federal government shutdown.

• "This is a key tool to lowering the household cost of transportation that is on average a top-two expense for any Nashville family or individual," O'Connell said. "Making this an affordable city to live in that has great quality of life have been our two priorities from the outset."

Share this story

The median age of Americans getting married for the first time was nearly 30 in 2024, up around two years from 2010, new census data shows.

The big picture: That figure has climbed as young adults delay traditional milestones. (In 1950, the median age at first marriage was roughly 22.)

Zoom in: Tennessee's average was 27.9 years, with men (28.7) waiting slightly longer to get hitched than women (27.1).

✈️ The Nashville airport is adding direct flights to Phoenix, Orlando, Mexico and Jamaica. (Tennessean)

🏈 In a battle of rookie quarterbacks, the Titans beat the Browns 31-29 to snap a seven-game losing streak. (Sports Illustrated)

🚨 More than 50 local law enforcement agencies in Tennessee have partnered with the federal government to participate in the immigration crackdown. (Tennessee Lookout)

Metro Council approved two zoning proposals aimed at creating more middle-class housing at its meeting last week.

Why it matters: City leaders are pushing for policy changes to increase density and make more housing options available, while not threatening beloved neighborhoods leery of redevelopment.

Catch up quick: Council approved a bill that creates two new zoning designations. Supporters say the new zoning will make it easier to build middle-class housing like townhomes.

• Council also approved a plan to allow detached dwelling units, like a garage apartment, in much of the city. The detached unit can't be used for a short-term rental property.

What's next: Two remaining zoning reform proposals will be up for consideration next month.

Go deeper: Read about the neighborhood meetings that took place over the fall to discuss the reform bills.

Calling all local news enthusiasts! We aim to be your go-to source for timely, relevant stories that impact our community.

Help us continue our mission to keep you informed by becoming an Axios Nashville member today.

• Contributions now begin at just $25+ a year, you'll receive exclusive perks and support our newsroom's growth.

Join today and make a difference!

Several Axios Nashville readers are coming to our Christmas party.

Zoom in: Many of you sent your recommendations for our holiday playlist. To name just a few ...

• Tricia S. tapped the classic "Someday at Christmas" by Stevie Wonder.
• Randy R. referred us to "Father Christmas" by The Kinks.
• Craig D. suggested Nashville-based artist MORGXN's newer offering "Every Season."

Follow our playlist on Spotify