Under the soft glow of the Bordeaux branch library's lights, community members gathered for the second traffic calming meeting focused on Enchanted Circle. Led by engineer David Greaves, the meeting aimed to address concerns about speeding and safety on residential streets, a pressing issue for many Nashville residents.

Greaves began by explaining the traffic calming program, which emphasizes physical solutions to reduce vehicle speeds over extended areas. The program is part of Nashville's broader Vision Zero initiative, which aims to eliminate fatalities and serious injuries on public roadways. He highlighted the critical role of speed in pedestrian safety, referencing a study from the Federal Highway Administration that revealed a stark decrease in survival rates for pedestrians struck by vehicles traveling over 25 miles per hour.

The meeting also showcased construction plans developed from feedback received during the previous gathering. Greaves noted that Enchanted Circle was selected from over 600 applications, underscoring the program's popularity and the city's commitment to enhancing road safety. With plans to select an additional 25 streets in the fall, the traffic calming initiative is set to expand its reach across Davidson County.

Participants learned about the three E's of traffic calming: education, enforcement, and engineering. While the Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT) focuses on engineering solutions, the Metro Nashville Police Department handles enforcement. Greaves emphasized the importance of community engagement in these discussions, as local input is vital for effective traffic calming measures.

As the meeting concluded, attendees left with a clearer understanding of the steps being taken to create safer streets in their neighborhoods. The ongoing dialogue between city officials and residents reflects a shared commitment to fostering a safer environment for all who travel Nashville's roads.