"WeGo Star" (Train): Route, Overview, Future Growth

Published: January 22, 2025

The WeGo Star, formerly the Music City Star, is a significant contributor to the transportation infrastructure of Middle Tennessee.

The service connects Nashville and Lebanon, Tennessee, utilizing the track of the Nashville & Eastern Railroad, offering seven station stops: Riverfront in Nashville, Donelson, Hermitage, Mt. Juliet, Martha, Hamilton Springs, and Lebanon, over a stretch of 32 miles. It began operations on September 18, 2006, and had a ridership of 108,000 in 2023.

Conceived as a "starter" project, the Star aims to showcase the potential of commuter rail for Nashville's metro area. There are ambitious plans for expanding with six additional lines that will reach Gallatin, Columbia, Murfreesboro, Dickson, Springfield, and Clarksville through Ashland City, utilizing existing CSX Transportation railroad lines. The envisioned layout forms a star around central Nashville, a concept that inspired the system’s original name, referencing the city's rich music legacy.

This service marks a significant milestone as it is Nashville’s first passenger train since Amtrak's Floridian was ceased in 1979. Notably, the Nashville and Eastern line, once part of the Tennessee Central Railway, had been void of passenger trains for decades, aside from those run by the Tennessee Central Railway Museum and the Broadway Dinner Train.

Music City Star F40PH-2 #122 is pushing the first train of the afternoon at Lebanon, Tennessee as it heads west to Nashville to pick up outbound commuters on September 20, 2007. Doug Kroll photo.

History

Origins

The WeGo Star originated from a vision to combat Nashville's escalating traffic congestion and accommodate the region's rapidly growing population. Rail had historically been a backbone for transportation in the early development of Middle Tennessee.

However, reliance shifted to road networks with the advent of automobiles. Acknowledging the need for a modern commuter rail system, local officials initiated efforts to bring the rail service back, leading to the establishment of the WeGo Star.

Development and Launch

By 2006, the groundwork was laid for the then-Music City Star's launch. The project, funded through a combination of local, state, and federal support, sought to revitalize existing rail lines for passenger service. On September 18, 2006, the commuter service opened to the public, marking Nashville's first such operation.

Initial Challenges

The rollout wasn't without challenges. Early operation faced issues such as fluctuating ridership, budget constraints, and logistical hurdles. Despite these, the Music City Star persevered, gradually gaining ridership and public support as it proved to be a valuable asset to the community.

Operations

Management

Operated by the Regional Transportation Authority of Middle Tennessee (RTA), the WeGo Star provides services Monday through Friday. The management ensures that the train connectivity aligns with peak commuting hours, making it a viable option for daily commuters.

Fleet and Infrastructure

The WeGo Star's fleet consists of modern bi-level passenger train cars known for their reliability and comfort. Each train is equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi and comfortable seating to enhance the commuting experience.

Schedule

The regular operations typically involve weekday services, focusing on morning inbound trains toward Nashville and afternoon outbound trains returning to outlying communities. While the schedule is primarily geared toward work commuters, it has flexibility for special events such as concerts or sporting events in the city.

Routes and Stops

Route Overview

The WeGo Star covers roughly a 32-mile stretch from Nashville to Lebanon in Wilson County. The route is a crucial link between suburban areas and Nashville's urban core, providing efficient and affordable transit for its users.

Key Stops

1. **Nashville Riverfront Station**

Located in downtown Nashville, this is the primary terminus for the WeGo Star. Passengers can easily access some of Nashville's most notable attractions and business centers from here.

2. **Donelson Station**

Situated in the suburb of Donelson, this stop serves numerous residential communities and is a crucial hub for commuters heading downtown.

3. **Hermitage Station**

This stop is positioned near numerous retail centers and residential areas, providing convenient access for locals.

4. **Mt. Juliet Station**

As a growing suburban area, Mt. Juliet relies on the WeGo Star for efficient movement into Nashville. The station is close to many residential developments.

5. **Hamilton Springs Station**

A newer addition to the line, this stop serves the mixed-use development area and signifies the ongoing expansion of Middle Tennessee’s suburban rail infrastructure.

6. **Lebanon Station**

This marks the eastern terminus of the route. It is vital for residents of Lebanon seeking hassle-free transportation to Nashville.

Benefits

Alleviating Road Traffic

One of the paramount benefits of the WeGo Star is its role in mitigating road congestion. Nashville's growth has put considerable strain on road networks, making the rail a viable alternative that encourages a shift from car dependence.

Environmental Impact

Commuter rail reduces the number of vehicles on the roads, contributing to lowered emissions and a smaller carbon footprint for the region. The WeGo Star embodies greener commuting options, aligning with sustainability goals.

Economic Advantages

Efficient public transportation bolsters the local economy by connecting workers with employment hubs and promoting tourism. Additionally, areas adjacent to train stations often see spikes in property values and business opportunities, enhancing regional development.

Accessibility

The WeGo Star offers an accessible transit option for people of various demographics, ensuring residents who do not drive or own a vehicle have reliable access to the city.

Challenges and Improvements

Current Challenges

The WeGo Star faces several challenges, including maintaining and increasing ridership, financial sustainability, and meeting the evolving demands of a growing population.

Proposed Improvements

Efforts to improve the service include expanding service hours, increasing the frequency of trains, and potential extensions of the rail line to include additional towns and suburbs. Additionally, there is ongoing advocacy for increased funding to support these expansions and technological upgrades.

Future Prospects

Expansion Plans

The RTA has considered potential future expansions, possibly extending routes to emerging suburban areas, which would allow more residents access to the benefits of commuter rail. Such plans remain reliant on securing adequate funding and public support, particularly in navigating budgetary and logistical constraints.

Integration with Other Transit Services

Enhancing connectivity with other modes of public transit forms a part of future plans, allowing for seamless transitions between buses, rail, and potential future systems like light rail or BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) for comprehensive coverage of metropolitan and surrounding areas.

Music City Star F40PH-2 #121 is pushing a commuter train at Mt. Juliet, Tennessee on September 21, 2007. Doug Kroll photo.

Conclusion

The WeGo Star represents a critical component of Middle Tennessee's transportation landscape. Its continued evolution, marked by improvements and potential expansions, reflects the needs of a growing population and the necessity for sustainable commuting solutions.

As Nashville and its surrounding communities grow, so too does the importance of comprehensive public transportation systems like the WeGo Star, which are essential to maintaining mobility, economic vitality, and quality of life for residents.

Embracing the challenges and opportunities presented by developments in transit, this commuter rail service stands as a testament to Nashville's commitment to innovation and connectivity.