Transit and the New Convention Center

Demolition began today in downtown to make way for the Music City Center, Nashville's new and highly controversial convention center. I stood next to the owner of the first building to be demolished while he told me about the 30-year history of his business, remembering back to when he first moved into this building.

As I watched the demoliton and looked around at the multiple city blocks that were about to be razed, I couldn't help but wonder how transit was going to play a part in the functionality of the Music City Center. I have had conversations with tourists and businesspeople, in town for work and play, who have often asked, "How do I get around in this city if I don't have a car?" My answer is usually, "You can use your life savings to pay for cabs, or you can try our bus system. One option will cause you to spend alot of money and the other will take a high level of bravery. I'll leave you to decide which is which."

There are already several conventions and conferences on the books and this project just might turn out to be successful. The debate will continue on whether this project was a smart decision at this point in time. Regardless, the thing is being built. Our city leaders are hoping that we'll have a Field of Dreams moment...you know, "If you build it, they will come." But if we build it, and if they come, how will they get anywhere?

From what we know so far, MTA is going to have bus routes that actually pass through the new convention center. This is a great ammenity and we hope that the new downtwon circulator will also serve the facility. But this is not enough!

1. Will our bus system be simple enough for visitors to use when our own residents are often puzzled by how it works?
2. Will the bus present an attractive and competitive option to other modes of transportation?
3. Will taking the bus be a normal part of Nashville's culture such that visitors think of the bus as their first and best option?

MTA is the face of public transportation in this city and has a significant role to play. Our hope is that the opening of the Music City Center will encourage much needed, system-wide improvements, pushing mass transit one step closer to being a viable option to residents and visitors alike.