Metro's riverfront permanent safety plan not in place as July 4 crowds flood Downtown

On the 4th of July, one of the busiest days in Nashville, Fox 17 News looks into why permanent fencing on the Downtown Riverfront is still not in place.

You may remember the story of the University of Missouri student Riley Strain. He tragically drowned in the Cumberland River last year after drinking.

Metro Councilmember Jacon Kupin said the city is still in the planning phases for permanent fencing.

He expects the process to get started in two months.

However, people I spoke with fear waiting this long could put people in danger.

On Friday, more than two hundred thousand people are expected on Broadway for the 'Let Freedom Sing! ' Fourth of July celebration.

Excessive drinking is a big concern.

Metro Police said tourist Riley Strain left Luke Bryan's on Broadway intoxicated on March 8th, 2024--a Friday night.

Surveillance video shows him stumbling before his life ended in tragedy.

Metro Police said they found Strain's body in the Cumberland River on March 22, 2024.

"I just ask that you mamas out there hug your baby's tight," said Michelle Whiteid, Strain's mom.

Since then, the city has set aside 1.5 million dollars for safety measures along the Downtown riverfront.

It's part of the mayor's capital spending plan.

Metro Council approved it in December 2024.

The money will go towards a variety of things such as permanent fencing.

However, it's already been six months and nothing.

"It's been in the planning stages, and I hope to see it implemented too," Kupin said, when asked why it hasn't been a priority.

In his next steps, Kupin says he hopes to see movement in the next couple of months. He said there is temporary fencing on Gay Street in the meantime along the riverfront.

People FOX 17 News spoke with said the temporary fencing is not enough—in one area, you can see a huge gap, where people could possibly fall into the Cumberland River.

Joey Diaz is in town from Philadelphia for the Fourth of July celebrations.

"There probably should be some more fencing up here," he said.

But Nashvillian Lauren Clark said fencing is not the only solution.

"There has to be some personal responsibility. I think you rely on your friends. You rely on the 'don't over-drink," she said.

It charges phones, helps people find their way home, and members hand out water--even offering liquid IV packets.

"It's helpful to remind you to keep drinking your water and staying cool in this heat, or else you'll forget. And you just keep drinking," said Connie Yee, who stopped by a Red Frogs tent for some water.

FOX 17 News reached out to the mayor's office to get more clarity on why the promised permanent fencing never came, especially before an event as big as the Fourth of July. We have not heard back because it is a holiday.

We will keep following up on the progress and let you know when the Downtown riverfront safety upgrades are done.

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