Jess Neely Drive between 25th Avenue and Natchez Trace closed permanently to vehicular traffic the week of Jan. 9 to make way for a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly greenway.
A part of the Vandy United Capital Projects, work will begin on Jess Neely Drive to install updated utilities and infrastructure to support the upcoming redesign of the FirstBank Stadium south endzone and future Vandy United projects.
Similar to the university’s transformative projects on Kensington Avenue and alleyway in the West End Neighborhood, Jess Neely Drive when completed will promote a pedestrian and bicycle-centric environment where the Vanderbilt community can collaborate and enjoy the Athletics Neighborhood.
In support of the University’s FutureVU and MoveVU initiatives, the reenvisioning of Jess Neely will enhance the connection between the Athletics Neighborhood and main campus, as well as make the area more walkable, bikeable and sustainable.
The south sidewalk will remain open to pedestrian and bicycle movement. Pedestrians can also use West End Avenue or Children’s Way to cross from 25th Avenue and Natchez Trace. Bicyclists can use Children’s Way as well. Detours for the VandyRide Black Route will be in effect. As construction in the area evolves, watch for signs in the area and look to the University’s Active Construction Map for the latest route.
Routes around the site are accessible, but if you need additional assistance, a pre-approved MobilityRide can be scheduled for a student, faculty or staff member with mobility needs. Faculty and staff can contact the Equal Opportunity and Access Office, and students can contact Student Access Services Office to get pre-approved.
For event coordinators that may have visitors on campus for conferences and workshops, staff must contact the MobilityRides program for guests with known mobility issues at least one week before the event date to determine accommodations for pre-approval. Last-minute requests are discouraged due to scheduling constraints.
If you have questions or concerns, email Campus Planning and Construction at con-str_alerts@vanderbilt.edu.