In a recent government meeting, officials from the National Department of Transportation (NDOT) presented a proposal to lower speed limits in urbanized areas, specifically along Lebanon Pike, from Korean Veterans Boulevard to Donaldson Pike. The initiative follows extensive stakeholder engagement and speed studies conducted in the area, which have garnered significant support from local council members.

Brad Fries, representing NDOT, emphasized the importance of community feedback, noting that he had presented at three district council meetings where the response was overwhelmingly positive. The proposed changes aim to enhance safety in the corridor, with plans for a phased approach to implementation. The first phase is expected to take approximately two months, during which new signage will be installed, and variable message boards will be deployed to inform the public about the changes.

Additionally, NDOT plans to collaborate with Metro Nashville Police Department for targeted enforcement of the new speed limits. An educational campaign is also in the works, which will begin after the new limits are established to ensure that residents are aware of the changes.

During the meeting, a motion was made to approve the speed limit reduction while deferring further discussion on extending the changes beyond Donaldson Pike to the Wilson County line until December. This deferral will allow NDOT to complete the first phase of the project and gather more data.

Concerns were raised regarding the shifting numbers from previous engineering assessments, prompting questions about the rationale behind the changes. However, the meeting concluded with a consensus to move forward with the initial phase of the speed limit reduction, reflecting a commitment to improving safety in the community.