Nashville previews $3.1 billion Choose How You Move program, urges vendors to register in Metro and WeGo systems

Sabrina Sussman, chief program officer for Choose How You Move, told attendees at a procurement preview that Nashville voters approved the plan in November 2024 and it unlocks a $3.1 billion, 15-year transportation program to build sidewalks, modernize signals and expand transit service.

"It unlocked a $3,100,000,000 transportation improvement program over 15 years," Sussman said, describing elements that include a priority sidewalk network, upgrades to traffic intersections and 54 miles of all-access corridors.

Why it matters: The program creates large, multiyear contracting opportunities across disciplines—from architectural and engineering services to traffic-signal modernization—and organizers said successful engagement requires registration in the correct procurement systems and active outreach.

Dennis Rowland, chief procurement officer and purchasing agent for Metro Nashville Davidson County, said vendors must be registered in both Metro and WeGo systems to receive solicitations and updates. "This means that you need to be registered in both of our procurement systems," Rowland said, emphasizing up-to-date contact information and the use of UN/SPSC commodity codes to ensure solicitations reach the right firms.

Metro and WeGo emphasized outreach and training: procurement staff offer supplier information sessions, pre-offer meetings and iSupplier training. Rowland described a "one city" outreach approach that coordinates Metro procurement, WeGo, MDOT and the mayor's office.

What vendors should know: Metro posted solicitations and registration at purchasing.nashville.gov. WeGo directs vendors to www.wegotransit.com and publishes solicitations through OpenGov; Hereford said any proposed contract exceptions must be submitted with a proposal and that procurements over $300,000 require WeGo board approval.

Christy Snell of NDOT Engineering explained the IDIQ (indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity) contract structure Metro used for multi-award A&E services: the RFQ opened last May, notice of intent to award went out in October, and the IDIQ covers more than 50 service types. Because of extended contract terms, Snell said the contracts require three Metro Council readings; the first reading occurred Jan. 20, a second reading was deferred to Feb. 17, and a third reading was anticipated on March 3, subject to counsel review.

Organizers said they will publish the attendee list and the presentation slides after the session and will post FAQs and addenda answering outstanding questions. For follow-up materials and to submit questions, the team provided transit@nashville.gov.

What’s next: Vendors should register in both systems, monitor procurement portals for solicitations, and plan to attend pre-bid meetings and supplier information sessions to identify teaming opportunities and prime/sub partnerships.