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A resolution requesting certain departments of the Metropolitan Government to provide a comprehensive analysis of recommended changes to increase the safety, security, housing resources for the unhoused, and cleanliness of the properties surrounding the Cumberland River within the downtown interstate loop.
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WHEREAS, Metropolitan Government departments have already begun working to improve the safety, security, housing resources for the unhoused, and cleanliness of the Cumberland River riverfront, especially the area within the downtown interstate loop ("Downtown Riverfront"). The Council recognizes and appreciates these actions, and wishes to build upon these efforts; and
WHEREAS, on December 19, 2023, the Metropolitan Council adopted RS2023-156 recognizing the importance of access to the Cumberland River; and
WHEREAS, the Metro Government is currently undergoing a master development on the East Bank, which will draw more people to and on the river; and
WHEREAS, increased pedestrian and boat traffic along the riverfront, especially the area within Downtown Riverfront and the steep wooded riverfront area along Gay Street ("Gay Street Riverfront"), have raised safety and cleanliness concerns including those having arisen after the recent disappearance of Riley Strain and the subsequent fall and injury of a man days later, both along an area of the Downtown Riverfront with limited fencing and a steep drop off. As WSMV News 4 noted in a recent report, Nashville Fire Department said of this area "...it is dark outside and clearly an unsafe area if someone falls"; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Government must examine and consider measures to maintain and increase public safety, including the repair, maintenance, and installation of safety equipment, such as lighting, fences, and safe access points surrounding hazardous waterfront areas, along with other necessary safety measures to prevent future tragic incidents from occurring; and
WHEREAS, as Nashville a...
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