Some streets closed in Nashville to allow for better social distancing

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The city of Nashville will be closing some streets in eight neighborhoods to encourage social distancing for those walking, running and biking.

“As we continue to see fewer vehicles on our roads during COVID-19, Metro joins other American cities in repurposing our valuable street space, in selected locations, to provide more opportunities for our residents to walk safely distanced,” Faye DiMassimo said in a press release. She is the Senior Advisor of Transportation and Infrastructure for Mayor John Cooper.

“In addition to being a good way to get exercise, especially if you’ve been indoors all day, it can help to manage the anxiety that many are feeling during this time," DiMassimo added.

The closures will apply to thru traffic and allow locals to spend time outside while still keeping a distance of six feet from their neighbors, according to city officials.

The first eight closures are the following locations:

• N. 17^th St. from Holly St. to McEwen Ave.
• 18^th Ave. N. from Cass St. to 11^th Ave. N.
• Bowling Ave. from Woodlawn Dr. to Whitland Ave.
• Grace St. from Joseph Ave. to Lischey Ave.
• Indiana Ave. from 51^st Ave N. to 44^th Ave. N.
• Oriole Place from Lone Oak Rd. to Shackleford Rd.
• Owendale Dr. from Kinwood Dr. to Mossdale Dr.
• Straightaway Ave. from Chapel Ave. to Porter Rd.

The streets will be signed appropriately and barricaded at the outer limits of the closures to prevent thru traffic. Metro Public Works right-of-way inspectors will monitor the closures to ensure they are maintained for the duration.

While streets will remain open for local car access, drivers are urged to drive slowly and look out for residents walking, running and biking. MPW staff will be monitoring and assessing each closure and making modifications as needed. The duration of the closures will align with Mayor Cooper’s phased approach to reopening Nashville businesses, and streets will reopen once Nashville moves from phase 2 to phase 3.

“Making our streets safer and more friendly for walking, running and biking is one of our top priorities at Metro Public Works,” said Jeff Hammond, Metro Public Works Assistant Director in a press release. “This effort combines elements of our Walk N Bike master plan and our Neighborhood Traffic Calming program, and we will continue to consider additional ways to navigate these unusual times.”