Heavier Volume Expected as Schools Reopen After Winter Storm

Morning Rush: Schools Return to Normal Routines

Nashville commuters should prepare for a significant increase in traffic volume this morning, Monday, February 9, 2026. Following an extended period of closures caused by last week’s historic ice storm, major school districts across Middle Tennessee are officially reopening today. Districts including Cheatham County and Dickson County have confirmed they are resuming regular schedules, meaning a full fleet of school buses and an influx of student drivers will be back on the roads for the first time in nearly two weeks.

Interstate Conditions and Pothole Hazards

While the primary ice has melted, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) warns that the severe winter weather has left behind significant road degradation. Commuters on I-24 in Rutherford and Davidson counties should remain alert for emergency maintenance crews. TDOT has been utilizing a milling process to address deep potholes between mile markers 67 and 71. While no major lane closures are scheduled for the peak morning hours today, motorists should expect localized slowing in the eastbound lanes near Sam Ridley Parkway as crews monitor previously repaired sections.

Public Transit and Commuter Expansion

For those looking to avoid the post-storm congestion, WeGo Public Transit reminds riders that the Winter 2026 service expansions are in full effect. Under the "Choose How You Move" initiative, several key routes now offer improved frequency to assist with Monday morning commutes:

• Route 3 (West End): Now operating every 10 minutes during midday and maintaining high-frequency service during peak hours.
• Route 52 (Nolensville Pike): Frequency has been increased to every 10 minutes to accommodate rising ridership.
• Route 95 (Spring Hill/Franklin): Afternoon commuters should note the route adjustment; buses from Vanderbilt will now utilize Wedgewood to access I-65 South.

Evening Alert: Downtown Event Congestion

Traffic is expected to tighten in the downtown core starting late this afternoon due to high-profile events at the Ryman Auditorium. The Grand Kyiv Ballet’s performance of "Swan Lake" begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the first of two nights with Trevor Noah. Expect heavy pedestrian activity and delays on 4th Avenue North and Broadway between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Drivers are encouraged to utilize the North Nashville Transit Center or secondary parking lots to avoid the immediate Ryman vicinity.