Nashville Mayor Megan Barry will deliver her second State of Metro address Wednesday morning at Bridgestone Arena.
The event is open to the public and will be streamed live.
The Democratic mayor will present details of her budget proposal and is expected to mention the tentative $6 billion regional mass transit plan to be phased in over 25 years.
Barry is a champion of Gov. Bill Haslam’s IMPROVE Act, which raises the tax on gas for road improvements. The legislation also allows Metro Nashville and other municipalities to hold a referendum on raising local taxes to fund transit projects. The IMPROVE Act has been passed by the state legislature and Haslam will soon sign it into law.
While Barry is popular among the city’s Democrats, her progressive views on a wide range of issues are excoriated by many conservatives.
Barry said in a statement that Nashville’s growth presents challenges.
“With new economic opportunity and growth comes a responsibility to ensure we continue to support the long-time residents and businesses that make up the heart of Nashville,” she said. “At this year’s State of Metro, I look forward to sharing my vision for how we can harness this growth and ensure that we continue this momentum in an equitable and sustainable way that will improve the quality of life for all of Nashville.”
Wednesday’s event will feature performances by the Tennessee State University marching band, the city’s youth poet laureate and a special musical guest.
The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Bridgestone Arena downtown. For counting purposes, attendees can RSVP at 54som.eventbrite.com. Seating will be first-come, first-serve. Those needing accommodations due to disabilities should contact Jerry Hall, ADA coordinator, at 615-862-8960 or [email protected].
People who cannot attend can follow along on twitter (@MayorMeganBarry) or stream live.
