Frequently Asked Questions

“Will we ever have true mass transit choices in Middle Tennessee…things like light rail, bus rapid transit, street cars?”

Answer: These are all options that are being considered for our region. Next steps will include detailed review of the feasibility of any or all of these options to both meet our transportation needs and to be financially feasible. Ultimately, we will need both leadership from our elected officials and strong public support if we are to move forward with such options.

“Where do we start with new mass transit choices?”

Answer: We have already started with good transit systems in Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin and in parts of our more rural areas. We have the Music City Star Commuter Rail line between Lebanon and Nashville. There is a study underway looking at a street car line out Broadway and West End Avenue in Nashville. There are major studies underway looking new mass transit corridors between Nashville and Gallatin (the “Northeast Corridor”) and between Nashville and Murfreesboro (the “Southeast Corridor.”) The Transit Alliance will help provide links to the status of these and other studies.

“Will mass transit in Middle Tennessee take money away from our highways?”

Answer: Funding for our highways is already becoming limited as people drive less and use more fuel-efficient cars. Taking good care of the investments we have already made in our highways must be a priority of state and local government. New investments in mass transit in Middle Tennessee will require us to find new dedicated local revenues as well as new sources of federal funding to be made available for mass transit.

“Does the Transit Alliance of Middle Tennessee receive government funding?”

Answer: No. The Transit Alliance of Middle Tennessee is a non-profit entity governed by a board of persons who share the commitment to bring mass transit to our 10-county region. Fundraising is a part of this board’s responsibility. Funds are sought from individuals, businesses, other non-profit organizations and foundations who are supportive of mass transit as a part of the prosperous future we all want for Middle Tennessee.