Vanderbilt embraces transportation program with key campus benefits

What does a better-connected Nashville look like? For Vanderbilt University, it means a campus that is seamlessly linked to the city through frequent, reliable public transit, safer sidewalks and smarter traffic signals-all of which are on the horizon with the approval of the "Choose How You Move"transportation referendum.

On Nov. 5, voters in Davidson County approved the $3.1 billion transit plan; 66 percent of ballots cast were in favor of the city's transportation system overhaul. Approval of the referendum triggers a half-cent increase in the sales tax rate, which will generate revenue specifically for transportation initiatives. The increase, which brings Davidson County's tax rate in line with surrounding counties', will take effect Feb. 1, bringing Davidson County's tax rate in line with surrounding counties.

How Nashville's transit overhaul will impact Vanderbilt

Vanderbilt stands to benefit from enhancements along West End Avenue and 21st Avenue that will make it easier for students, faculty and staff to navigate the city without relying on personal vehicles.

Michael Briggs, director of mobility in Vanderbilt's Office of Transportation and Mobility, is a Vanderbilt-appointed adviser to Mayor Freddie O'Connell and was a key figure in the development and implementation of this initiative. "West End and 21st Avenue have been identified as 'all-access corridors' that will see more frequent and reliable transit service," Briggs said.

Briggs also emphasized the value of the transit benefitsalready available to the Vanderbilt community through the QuickTicket app.

"Our community members can ride WeGo Transit for free across the whole system-not just going to campus or for work," Briggs said. The planned transit enhancements will make these benefits even more useful, with more frequent and convenient service to campus and to other areas of the city. He also suggests riding the bus to travel from campus into downtown for events to avoid paying for parking.

Nathan Green, vice chancellor for government and community relations, praised Briggs' role in the initiative.

"Through Michael's dedication and expertise, Nashville is on track for a more connected and sustainable transit future. We are incredibly proud of the pivotal role he has played in shaping this transformative plan," Green said. "His contributions reflect Vanderbilt's commitment to advancing innovative solutions that benefit the city we are so proud to call home."

Looking ahead, Briggs discussed plans to improve regional connectivity, noting that a new transit center near Vanderbilt will help provide more frequent service to other parts of the county. He expressed optimism that this initiative will fundamentally transform how Nashvillians move around the city.

"I think this will change the mindset of how we get around and how Nashvillians see and relate to one another in the future," Briggs said.

Learn more and get involved

Vanderbilt hosted an event in May that provided an open discussionwith Mayor Freddie O'Connell about the "Choose How You Move" program. Michael Briggs provided a detailed presentation on the initiative, emphasizing its long-term impact on the city's transportation future.

To explore the improvements coming to your neighborhood or learn more about "Choose How You Move," visit Nashville.gov/transit. The site features interactive maps, updates and resources to help residents stay informed.

For more information about transportation benefits available to the Vanderbilt community, visit the Parking & Transportation website.