Tennessee – Tennessee requires at least $77.7 billion in public infrastructure improvements between July 2023 and June 2028, reflecting a $9.5 billion (14%) increase from the previous year, according to a new report by the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR).
Transportation and utilities account for the largest portion of the increase, with a $3.8 billion rise—40% of the total growth. This includes $3.1 billion for new projects and $3.7 billion in cost increases for existing ones, though the impact was partially offset by $1.8 billion in completed projects, $444 million in cost reductions, and $191 million in canceled projects.
Education infrastructure needs rose by $2.2 billion, primarily driven by $895 million in additional school renovation costs. Metro Nashville Public Schools accounted for $668 million of the increase, with Wilson County at $106 million and Rutherford County at $93 million.
Health, safety, and welfare needs grew by $1.4 billion, with water and wastewater projects ($484 million) and law enforcement facilities ($475 million) making up 66% of the increase. Notable projects include a $68 million wastewater treatment plant upgrade in Blount County, a $38 million water tank in Sumner County, and major jail construction projects in DeKalb County ($70 million) and Humphreys County ($30 million).
Other areas with increased infrastructure needs include general government ($1.2 billion), recreation and culture ($878 million), and economic development ($215 million).
The report also noted a slight 1% increase in the percentage of infrastructure projects with identified funding. Of the $55.5 billion in projects for which funding details are available, $19 billion has been secured. Many projects, particularly school improvements and state capital budget requests, do not yet have identified funding sources.