Connect Downtown Nashville

The plan prioritizes future mobility investments based on shared community values and puts in place procedures to steward new data and technology for the public good.

Now, more than ever, Nashville needs innovative mobility options that support social, economic, and environmental goals. Over the past 10 years, Nashville’s population has grown by over 10 percent. Many of those new residents are moving into downtown, creating a new, booming neighborhood with nearly 14,000 residents. The demands on Nashville’s streets and sidewalks have both grown and expanded. Today, the city’s 19th century street system must move people and goods via private vehicle, truck, transit, taxi and rideshare, walking and rolling, bike, and scooter—and even a few horses. It needs to serve downtown businesses and residents by providing space for pick-ups and drop-offs, deliveries, valet parking, and on-street parking. Many streets and sidewalks are also being used for outdoor dining and other commercial activities.

Nelson\Nygaard is leading Connect Downtown, a plan to shape Downtown Nashville’s mobility system with an eye toward resiliency, sustainability, equity and flexibility. The plan will define Nashville’s mobility future, bringing all of the city’s transportation modes and functions into a cohesive system, including new and emerging technology. With analysis and public and stakeholder input, Connect Downtown will improve transportation safety, increase mobility options, create a more sustainable and resilient network, and enhance the overall experience of getting around—whether you call Nashville home, commute into the city, or are here for a visit.

Through the plan, we’ll prioritize future mobility investments based on shared community values; provide policy guidance; help to streamline project implementation; and put in place procedures to steward new data and technology for the public good.