A recent poll conducted by Vanderbilt University has revealed something quite extraordinary in today’s often divided political landscape: widespread approval for Mayor Freddie O’Connell and for his transit plan, across party lines. The 2024 Vanderbilt Poll shows that our city is filled with optimism, with a significant 9-point increase in the percentage of Nashvillians who believe that their city is headed in the right direction. Mayor O’Connell’s approval rating stands at an impressive 71 percent, drawing support from Republicans (56 percent), independents (68 percent) and Democrats (85 percent) alike.
One of the poll’s main focuses is Nashville’s transit situation, where O’Connell’s practical approach has gained widespread support. With nearly half of commuters spending between 30 to 90 minutes in traffic each day, and many calling for better public transportation, O’Connell has become a champion for sensible transit solutions. The upcoming citywide transit referendum — further details of which O’Connell unveiled last week, and which is set for the November ballot — enjoys strong bipartisan backing, with 84 percent of respondents expressing support. That includes 70 percent of Republicans, 86 percent of independents and a remarkable 92 percent of Democrats.
Perhaps the widespread support can be attributed to the mayor having the good sense to include the community in his planning and his decision making.
Initial cost would fund new transit centers, bus service improvements and traffic signal upgrades
As noted by the Nashville Banner: “The details have been hashed out in public meetings in the weeks since O’Connell launched the push in February. A half-cent sales tax surcharge would be expected to raise more than $100 million annually if voters approve the referendum, with the funds going to service increases, modernizing traffic signals, an expansion of the city’s sidewalk network, safety improvements, the development of more than a dozen transit centers across the county and, city officials hope, several dedicated bus lanes on Nashville’s busiest corridors. ‘This is how we catch up on our transportation to-do list in a big way. This program is designed to make a year-one impact,’ O’Connell [said].”
Further, as I mentioned in my March 28 letter, O’Connell’s transit plan is on track to be much more affordable than Nashville’s failed 2018 transit plan, and makes a bit more sense for our city at this particular time.
Digging into other details of the Vanderbilt Poll, it’s clear that O’Connell’s bipartisan appeal isn’t just luck — it’s the result of his effective leadership in the face of Nashville’s rapid growth and evolving challenges. Residents are feeling good about Nashville’s economy, with 68 percent rating it as very or fairly good. Additionally, a whopping 78 percent express love for their city, highlighting a collective pride in Nashville’s identity.
The poll also reveals a strong consensus on the city’s priorities, with crime, education and affordable housing emerging as the top concerns. However, not everything is perfect. There is some apprehension that residents may be uninformed about significant future endeavors, such as future development of the East Bank and The Fairgrounds Nashville and racetrack revitalization. John Geer — co-director of the Vanderbilt Poll and professor of political science — expressed concern, stating, “If they aren’t keeping up with these projects, new unfavorable information about the project could quickly undermine support for it.” While optimism abounds regarding certain city priorities and the forthcoming transit referendum, it’s evident that challenges persist. Still, the poll makes clear that O’Connell has the city’s priorities in the right order — and that is no doubt leading to the number of Nashvillians who feel our city is back on the right track.
As Nashville gears up for the November 2024 election, anticipation is building around the transit referendum. With nearly half of commuters battling traffic congestion daily, the need for robust public transportation solutions is undeniable. The transit plan is one that resonates across party lines. If passed, this referendum promises to alleviate traffic woes, enhance safety and modernize infrastructure, ultimately improving the quality of life for all Nashvillians. As the Vanderbilt Poll shows our collective love for Nashville, perhaps this affection will only deepen after November, should the referendum prevail. Beyond political divides, the transit plan embodies a tangible step toward a more efficient and livable city — something we can all look forward to.
Bill Freeman
Bill Freeman is the owner of FW Publishing, the publishing company that produces the Nashville Scene, Nfocus, the Nashville Post and The News.
