Support Us Button Widget

Tactical urbanism: What is it and where can you find it in Nashville?

NDOT’s new tactical urbanism program, which supports temporary community-led transportation projects, has us digging into the concept’s role in Music City.

A crowd of people fill a street as they work on painting a crosswalk to resemble the Pride flag.

Nashvillians came together in June to paint the city’s first rainbow crosswalk at the corner of 14th Street and Woodland Street. | Photo via Mayor Freddie O’Connell

From PARK(ing) Day to Nashville’s rainbow crosswalk, tactical urbanism can be seen in various forms throughout Music City — and it’s only growing.

This week, NDOT launched a new tactical urbanism program. We’ll have more on that below, but first...

What is it exactly?

These community-driven projects are often temporary, low-cost, and scalable initiatives aimed at improving public spaces. Think: parklets, open streets, pop-up parks, and even Little Free Libraries.

Applying for funding + permits

First, get familiar with the concept using this guide. Next, your community organization or neighborhood group can fill out the application, detailing your project, before emailing the completed form.

Applications are reviewed (and funded) on a quarterly basis with the next deadline coming up on Monday, Aug. 19. Officials will select four projects for the program’s first cycle, which will be announced by mid-September.

If you’ve already planned your project and secured funding, you’ll still request installation approval via the form and process above — just mark “no” on the first question.

More from NASHtoday
From turkey and trimmings to pies and plant-based plates, Nashville’s got something for every Thanksgiving feast.
Whether you’re active-duty or a retired service member, these local businesses are extending a “thank you” on Veterans Day with special offers.
Music City is officially on the Michelin map.
Instead of just throwing your pumpkins away in the garbage, consider donating them to local farms through Pumpkins For Pigs.
The bread type is reaching new heights in popularity, and we’re here to help you find the best loves in Music City, or start making your own.
Nashville will welcome athletes, families, and fans from all around the country for one of the largest sporting events to take place in Tennessee.
Live Nation revealed plans for a 4,400-capacity indoor music hall, complete with a three-story layout, whiskey bar, and vinyl lounge.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
After closing in 2022, the country music landmark is making its comeback with a new multilevel concept.
From Nashville to the Dodgers’ dugout, Gilliam became a key part of the team’s success for more than two decades.