NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP/CLARKSVILLENOW) — A $5.2 billion proposal to build an extensive transit system in the Tennessee capital would introduce light rail and carve out an underground tunnel downtown.
Nashville Mayor Megan Barry announced Tuesday that her plan would feature 26 miles of light rail, additional bus service and the tunnel.
Barry wants to put a package of tax increases to pay for the ambitious project before voters in May. The new revenue would come from boosting the city’s sales tax by a half-cent per dollar in 2018, followed by another half-cent hike in 2023. It would also increase taxes on hotel stays, rental cars and businesses.
Fares would be free or reduced for poor, disabled, senior and under-18 residents.
The mayor envisions the project being completed in phases by 2032.
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