Housing Grants, Transit Debates, and Fall Home Care

Dive into Nashville’s latest citywide initiatives impacting housing, transportation, and seasonal home preparedness. Discover the historic $5 million HUD grant aimed at bolstering affordable housing through innovative partnerships and strategies. Understand the heated debate surrounding the proposed $3.1 billion transit overhaul, poised for a November ballot decision, which could transform Nashville’s infrastructure at the cost of a sales tax increase. Plus, get practical advice from our Fall Home Preparation Checklist, ensuring your home is ready for the cooler months ahead. Whether you’re a homeowner, voter, or community observer, this article provides critical insights into Nashville’s dynamic urban landscape.

Today’s Forecast

76o / 65o | 80% Chance of rain | 6:26AM Sunrise | 6:57PM Sunset

Nashville Secures Historic $5 Million HUD Grant for Affordable Housing Initiatives

(Photo courtesy of PRIDE Newsdesk)

  • Federal Grant Awarded: Nashville receives a $5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as part of the White House's initiative to remove barriers to affordable housing.

  • Faith Based Development Institute: Part of the grant will establish the Faith Based Development Institute to facilitate affordable housing projects on land owned by faith-based organizations.

  • Affordable Housing Efforts: The funds will also enhance Metro Nashville's Affordable Housing Finance Program and support the creation and preservation of permanent supportive housing units.

  • Community Impact: Nashville's Mayor Freddie O’Connell highlights the grant's role in leveraging nearly 4,000 acres owned by the faith community to address housing challenges.

  • Strategic Use of Land: A report notes that out of 3,491 acres owned by faith-based institutions in Davidson County, 57% are undeveloped and could be used for housing developments.

  • Comprehensive Housing Strategy: The grant supports Nashville's ongoing efforts to increase housing supply through innovative strategies and partnerships with the private sector and developers.

Residents Rally Against Tax Increase for $3.1 Billion Transit Overhaul

  • Group Opposition: A group named the Committee to Stop an Unfair Tax is distributing over 500 free yard signs to oppose Nashville's proposed transit plan, which would increase the sales tax if passed in the November vote.

  • Transit Plan Details: The $3.1 billion plan includes improvements like sidewalk construction, smart signal installation, and 24-hour bus services. It would be funded by a half-cent sales tax increase, costing the average Nashville family an estimated additional $70 annually.

  • Public Debate: Supporters, including Deputy Communications Director Alex Apple, argue the plan is crucial for catching up with other cities by enhancing the transportation infrastructure, potentially benefiting many residents.

  • Criticism and Concerns: Critics, including the opposition group and some residents, argue the plan is unsafe, unfair, and unnecessary, emphasizing that the city has other priorities like education and roads that need attention first. They also express concerns over increased living costs and public safety on transit.

  • Voting and Implementation: The final decision will rest with Nashville voters in November, with immediate improvements to bus services promised if the plan is approved.

Source: WKRN

Fall Home Preparation Checklist: Essential Tips for a Nashville Autumn

(Photo by David Kanigan)

  • Heating and Air Check-up: Schedule a professional check-up for your heating system to ensure it's ready for the colder months.

  • Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance: Have your chimney cleaned and inspected to prevent hazards and ensure efficiency.

  • Exterior Cleaning: Pressure wash and seal your porch and deck; consider painting the exterior for a fresh look.

  • Gutters and Downspouts: Clean and inspect your gutters and downspouts to prevent water damage and address any necessary repairs.

  • Sidewalk and Driveway Repairs: Fix any damages to prevent issues during freezing temperatures.

  • Tree and Shrub Maintenance: Trim overgrowth, especially around electrical wires and the roof, to prevent storm damage.

  • Roof Inspection: Check for and repair any signs of damage or wear to prevent leaks.

  • Weatherproofing: Inspect doors and windows for leaks and apply weatherstripping where needed. Replace any damaged or old caulking.

  • Safety Equipment Check: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replace batteries, and ensure fire extinguishers are charged.

  • Outdoor Lighting: Clean and adjust outdoor lights to prepare for shorter days.

  • Pest Prevention: Seal up any gaps or holes to keep pests out as the weather turns cold.

  • Foundation Checks: Inspect the foundation for cracks or issues; address any drainage problems around the foundation.

  • HVAC Filters: Change all air filters to maintain air quality and system efficiency.

  • Lawn Care: Aerate, fertilize, and reseed the lawn to ensure healthy growth for spring.

  • Decorations and Holiday Prep: Clean and organize holiday decorations and home areas where guests will gather.

  • Emergency Preparedness: Update your home emergency kit and ensure all family members know the plan during an emergency.

Upcoming Events

  • Today, September 12, 2024

    • Something Corporate - Out of Office Tour - Link Here

      • Ryman Auditorium, 116 Rep. John Lewis Way, Nashville, TN

  • Friday, September 13, 2024

    • Nashville Sounds vs. Memphis Redbirds - Link Here

      • First Horizon Park, 19 Jr Gilliam Wy, Nashville, TN

    • Opening Weekend for Nashville Symphony - Link Here

      • Schermerhorn Symphony Center, One Symphony Place, Nashville, TN

    • Bilmuri - Link Here

      • Brooklyn Bowl, 925 3rd Avenue N, Nashville, TN

  • Saturday, September 14, 2024

    • Faye Webster - Link Here

      • Ryman Auditorium, 116 Rep. John Lewis Way, Nashville, TN

    • Joseph - Link Here

      • Cannery Hall, 1 Cannery Row, Nashville, TN

    • Big Machine Music City Gran Prix - Link Here

      • Nashville Superspeedway, 866-RACE-TIX 4847, McCrary Rd F, Lebanon, TN

  • Sunday, September 15, 2024

    • Riley Green at The Music City Gran Prix - Link Here

      • Nashville Superspeedway, 866-RACE-TIX 4847, McCrary Rd F, Lebanon, TN

From Downtown to The Gulch: Nashville Proposes Wider Street Vending Restrictions

(Photo by The Cultural Lanscape)

  • Nashville's Street Vending Regulations: The city is considering expanding regulations that restrict street vending, currently in place in downtown Nashville, to the Gulch neighborhood.

  • Legislative Background: Former Mayor John Cooper initiated the ordinance in early 2023, which allows the Nashville Department of Transportation & Multimodal Infrastructure (NDOT) to manage vending permits and set vending area boundaries.

  • Community Feedback: Metro Councilman Jacob Kupin mentioned that Gulch residents and business owners support the application of similar restrictions in their area to ensure public safety and orderly streetscapes.

  • Safety Concerns: Emphasis on safety as a primary motivation for the regulations, with concerns about the adequacy of sidewalk space to accommodate both vendors and pedestrians effectively.

  • Permitting Process: NDOT is responsible for accepting permit applications for designated vending areas and can issue citations for any infractions.

  • Upcoming Review: The Traffic & Parking Commission is set to review the proposal to expand the vending ordinance on September 9.

  • Resource Access: Detailed maps and ordinances related to vending zones are accessible online for public viewing.

Source: WKRN

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