WeGo Star: Nashville's Premier Commuter Rail Service
The WeGo Star (reporting mark NRTX), previously known as the Music City Star, serves as a vital commuter rail link connecting the heart of Nashville to Lebanon, Tennessee. Launched as a "starter" project, this service was designed to demonstrate the viability and effectiveness of commuter rail within the Nashville metropolitan area, providing a modern alternative to highway congestion.
Operating on the existing tracks of the Nashville and Eastern Railroad, the service represents a historic return of passenger rail to the region. It is the first passenger train service of any kind in Nashville since Amtrak's Floridian was discontinued in 1979. Prior to the Star's launch, the line—part of the former Tennessee Central Railway—had not seen regular passenger service for decades, with the exception of specialized excursion trains from the Broadway Dinner Train and the Tennessee Central Railway Museum.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Route: Runs 32 miles (51 km) between Nashville and Lebanon.
- Ridership: 153,900 annual passengers (2025).
- Infrastructure: 7 accessible stations using standard gauge tracks (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in).
- Fleet: 4 locomotives and 11 coaches, typically operating in trains of 2-3 gallery cars.
- Performance: Average speed of 37 mph (60 km/h) with a top speed of 79 mph (127 km/h).
Operational Overview
The WeGo Star began operations on September 18, 2006. It is owned by the Tennessee Department of Transportation and managed by the Tennessee Regional Transportation Authority. The system utilizes a fleet that has included ex-Amtrak EMD F40PH locomotives, some of which originally carried the Pacific Surfliner livery before being repainted to match the system's branding.
Station Guide
The line features seven fully accessible stations, ensuring ease of travel for all passengers across the 32-mile corridor:
- Riverfront: The central Nashville terminus.
- Donelson: Located approximately 10 miles from the start.
- Hermitage: Located approximately 15 miles from the start.
- Mt. Juliet: Located approximately 19 miles from the start.
- Martha: Located approximately 25 miles from the start.
- Hamilton Springs: Located approximately 28 miles from the start.
- Lebanon: The eastern terminus at 32 miles.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Owner | Tennessee Department of Transportation |
| Operator | Tennessee Regional Transportation Authority |
| Total System Length | 32 mi (51 km) |
| Number of Stations | 7 |
| Annual Ridership (2025) | 153,900 |
| Track Gauge | Standard Gauge (1,435 mm) |
Future Expansion Plans
The original name, Music City Star, was a nod to both the city's famous country music stars and the intended layout of the transit system. The long-term vision involves a "star formation" where seven different lines converge in central Nashville.
While the current line serves Lebanon, expansion plans include up to six additional lines utilizing existing CSX Transportation railroad lines. These proposed routes would extend service to the following cities:
- Gallatin
- Columbia
- Murfreesboro
- Dickson
- Springfield
- Clarksville (via Ashland City)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the WeGo Star?
The WeGo Star is a commuter rail service operating in the Nashville Metropolitan Area, connecting downtown Nashville to Lebanon, Tennessee.
How many stations are on the WeGo Star line?
There are seven stations: Riverfront, Donelson, Hermitage, Mt. Juliet, Martha, Hamilton Springs, and Lebanon. All stations are accessible.
Who operates the rail service?
The service is owned by the Tennessee Department of Transportation and operated by the Tennessee Regional Transportation Authority.
What is the maximum speed of the trains?
The trains have a top speed of 79 mph (127 km/h), though they maintain an average speed of 37 mph (60 km/h).
Are there plans to expand the service?
Yes, expansion plans include adding up to six more lines to cities such as Gallatin, Columbia, Murfreesboro, Dickson, Springfield, and Clarksville.