Fights on Broadway, like two men allegedly

assaulting a security guard at Robert’s Western World

or a

homeless man reportedly chasing people with a belt

, are just a few examples of the chaos Metro Police say they’re trying to control in Nashville’s Entertainment District.

In response to these incidents and many more, Metro Police created a specialized Entertainment District Unit (EDU), a team dedicated solely to patrolling and maintaining safety in the city’s bustling nightlife hub. According to Metro Council Member Jacob Kupin, that unit made more than 1,000 arrests last year alone.

But now, the unit’s future is uncertain.

Kupin says the EDU has been operating on borrowed funding, money originally earmarked for a new South Precinct facility. That precinct is now set to open, and its funding will go with it, potentially leaving the EDU without financial backing.

Kupin is now urging city leaders to establish a permanent funding source.

“Having a police force that knows the bars, they know the managers, they know the people that are here — they know the area — is so huge,” Kupin said.

He estimates it will take approximately $4.5 million to fully fund the program. That money would support about 40 officers, a lieutenant, and a sergeant dedicated to the district.

The importance of their presence is echoed by community partners like Red Frogs, an organization that works alongside Metro Police on weekends to help keep people safe. Dan Terry, the group’s national director, says just having these officers visible often stops trouble before it starts.

“It’s crucial and vital for the sustainability and the safety [of the area],” Terry said.

Tourists and locals alike agree that the extra police presence helps them feel safer while enjoying the Broadway nightlife.

“There’s a lot of drinking going on, a lot of, I mean, stupidity, but everybody’s having fun,” said tourist Kevin Deverney. “And things happen. It’s nice to know that there’s a police presence.”

“I think it’s very important to keep the community and everyone safe, for sure,” added local resident Jessica Hill.

As the summer season heats up and crowds continue to grow, Metro Council will need to act fast if it wants the Entertainment District Unit to continue protecting the heart of Music City.



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