Underground Tunnel Planned from Nashville Airport to Downtown
Tennessee officials and representatives from Elon Musk’s company recently gathered to reveal plans for an underground tunnel known as the “Music City Loop.” This project aims to connect Nashville’s International Airport with downtown, potentially transforming travel in the region.
The Boring Company plans to excavate a 10-mile tunnel beneath the state-owned road from the Music City Centre to the airport, located on the city’s southeast side. It’s anticipated that Tesla vehicles will transport passengers in just eight minutes.
Governor Bill Lee announced that this estimated two-year project will be privately funded, eliminating the need for public funding or tax incentives. He stated that construction would commence once the necessary approvals are in place, and the initial segment of the tunnel might be operational by fall 2026. However, he did mention that environmental permits would not be rushed.
While the cost of the tunnel remains undisclosed, Lee commented that it would significantly alter travel patterns from the airport. Officials believe this loop could reduce the number of vehicles on Nashville roads, though specifics about ride costs or estimates were not provided.
Steve Davis, the president of the Boring Company, acknowledged the challenges of tunneling through Tennessee’s limestone but assured that safety is a main priority. Riders will be able to exit the airport within mere feet of the tunnel entrance leading to downtown.
Davis expressed gratitude for Nashville’s warm welcome to the project, suggesting it could ultimately expand with multiple stations throughout central Tennessee.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, present at the announcement, praised the project as a significant innovation with federal backing. Additionally, support has been voiced from both the Tennessee government and the Nashville Chamber of Commerce, despite ongoing legal disputes over board appointments in the state.
Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell wasn’t in attendance, though Lee confirmed the mayor’s backing. Senator Marsha Blackburn highlighted the Boring Company’s safety rating, mentioning that it received a 99.57% rating from federal security agencies for similar projects, such as the Vegas Loop.
However, the Nashville Democratic legislative delegation was not invited to the event. Representative John Ray Clemons criticized the initiative, arguing that it could lead to granting extensive underground property rights to a billionaire, raising concerns regarding oversight and environmental impacts. He also referenced issues with the Las Vegas project, hinting at potential repercussions for Nashville’s aged stormwater and wastewater systems.
This proposal marks Musk’s second initiative in major Tennessee cities, following the controversial artificial intelligence facility in Memphis.
Currently, the Boring Company is working on a Vegas Loop, a two-mile tunnel for Tesla rides, though it’s faced scrutiny for prioritizing tourist access over commuter needs. A prior proposal by former Mayor Megan Barry, which included a significant transportation upgrade, failed to pass a local referendum. The new Nashville mayor is advocating for a new transportation strategy, estimated to cost about $3.1 billion over the next 15 years, to enhance bus routes and various transit facilities.
The announcement indicated a shift in approach by airport officials, as seen in their prior responses to media inquiries late last year.
Ultimately, Doug Krulen, president and CEO of Metropolitan Nashville Airport, reinforced the commitment to moving forward with the project.
