SHORTSIGHTEDNESS DOWNTOWN

By Dan Miller

July 15, 2008 

That photo looks like a ghost town doesn't it? 

But look closer. 

In fact, if you zoom-in a little (2nd photo) you can actually glimpse -- across the river -- some of the thousands of people sitting on the riverbank enjoying the music and food at the "Music City Soul Food Festival." 

Hundreds more had staked out spots on the east side, near LP Field, to put down their chairs and blankets. 

What most of these folks had in common on that Saturday evening was the struggle to find a decent parking spot within a reasonable distance of Riverfront Park. 

Yet, right there -- within easy walking distance across the scenic old Shelby Pedestrian Bridge -- are several gigantic, easily accessible, well marked parking lots, with hundreds of spaces. 

But don't even try to park there! 

The lots have big, yellow gates -- chained and locked -- to make certain no cars get inside. 

I can't help but wonder... why?? 

Why not use those parking lots as a way to attract people to events downtown.... or for shopping, or dining? 

What about for a concert at the Schermerhorn? 

My goodness, wouldn't it be convenient and appealing to park there and take a delightful stroll across Nashville's iconic, beautifully lighted Shelby Bridge into downtown?

 

I recall back when the city first reopened the historic bridge, those lots were not locked, and visitors were free to park there. 

These days the Shelby bridge is, effectively, a bridge to nowhere... oh, except when there are football games. Is that what it's all about now? 

There are cities all over the U.S. -- Savannah, Georgia... San Jose, California... Austin, Texas... Medford, Oregon -- that are implementing free, convenient parking as a way to attract tourists and locals to downtown shops, restaurants and events. 

In San Francisco, you'll even find some free parking available while you walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. 

Couldn't Nashville find a way to, at least, open the two parking lots nestled directly at the east end of the Shelby Bridge? 

Mister Mayor, tear down those gates! We want the freedom to park.... even if we have to pay for it. 

There's something really sad about a parking lot... with so much to offer... just sitting alone and empty.

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