WeGo Link program expands service areas and sees trip growth in Nashville

The Metro Transit Authority of Nashville convened on April 25, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding the WeGo Link program and proposed service changes for summer 2025. The meeting began with a presentation by Madeline Roberson, a Transit Planner, who provided an overview of the WeGo Link program, which facilitates first and last mile connections for passengers living outside fixed route service areas.

Roberson highlighted the program's growth, noting that it partners with Uber to offer rides for a nominal fee of $2, with WeGo covering the remaining trip cost. The program has expanded to include several new zones, with notable increases in ridership, particularly in the Hermitage and Bellevue areas, where trip numbers surged by over 763,000%. The Antioch zone remains the most popular, accounting for 36% of all trips last year. Roberson reported that the program's total trip numbers have doubled each quarter, with 2024 marking the highest year of ridership since its inception in 2021.

The presentation emphasized the cost-effectiveness of the WeGo Link program, which has operated under a budget of $90,000 since 2021, significantly less than the cost of providing fixed route services. The program's data collection efforts are also aiding in future route planning, with aspirations to expand the service countywide.

Following Roberson's presentation, the meeting transitioned to Felix, who discussed proposed service changes for summer 2025. These changes include improvements to existing routes, increased frequency on high-demand routes, and the expansion of the Access on Demand service to weekends and holidays. Notably, Route 6 will see midday service improvements, while Routes 55 and 56 will operate more frequently during evenings and weekends.

Felix also introduced two new "wiggling zones" aimed at enhancing connectivity in underserved areas, including Elm Hill Pike and Maplewood. Public feedback was solicited prior to the meeting, with 48 comments received, primarily in support of the proposed changes. An equity analysis indicated that the changes would increase trip availability for low-income and minority populations by 7%.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue monitoring the WeGo Link program and implementing the proposed service changes, ensuring that Nashville's transit system remains responsive to community needs.