Murfreesboro establishes Roadway Exploratory Group to tackle traffic issues

The Public Works Committee of Rutherford County convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding traffic and infrastructure issues within the county. The meeting was marked by the introduction of the newly formed Roadway Exploratory Group, aimed at addressing persistent traffic problems that have been highlighted in community focus groups.

The committee's chairperson outlined the origins of the group, noting that it is a revival of a previous initiative that had stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic. The chair emphasized the importance of understanding the specific nature of traffic issues, which can encompass safety, roadway conditions, and intersection management. The group has gathered a diverse set of stakeholders, including planners from various municipalities, traffic engineers, and representatives from the county's GIS and engineering departments.

The primary objectives of the Roadway Exploratory Group are threefold: to collect and analyze traffic data from all municipalities, to prioritize potential solutions based on this data, and to determine the county's role in addressing these infrastructure challenges. The chairperson reported that initial meetings have already led to the re-establishment of quarterly meetings among planners from all municipalities, fostering collaboration and information sharing.

Additionally, the committee has applied for the "Safe Streets for All" grant, which aims to leverage state funding to further investigate and address traffic concerns. This proactive approach has garnered support from various stakeholders, including the Greater Nashville Regional Council (GNRC), which has extensive data resources.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the committee informed about the group's progress and to address any questions regarding the formation and authorization of the exploratory group. The chairperson expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of this initiative, highlighting the importance of a coordinated effort to tackle traffic issues as a collective county concern rather than isolated municipal challenges.