The majority of resistance that I've seen on this topic is coming from the outer lying neighborhoods (Brentwood, Oak Hill, Crieve Hall, etc) that use Franklin / 8th Ave S as a way to bypass I-65. While I understand the concern, as someone who lives in between 8th & 9th ave S, I would love the options to ride my bike and/or walk to the businesses south of Bradford Ave without feeling like I'm going to get run over.
Also, the current configuration of the street with no center turn lane has constant left lane back ups as folks try to make left turns, creating a "dodge-em" effect as people try to change lanes quickly to avoid getting stuck.