Nashville mayor's $527 million plan to upgrade roads, schools and firetrucks
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Nashville Mayor Freddie O'Connell on Wednesday released a $527 million spending plan for new city projects that includes funding for transportation upgrades, school renovations and park improvements.
Why it matters: This is O'Connell's second capital spending plan since he took office last year. It focuses heavily on maintenance and regular government services. It also funds road and sidewalk construction that will complement the upcoming work tied to O'Connell's transportation plan.
Between the lines: The capital spending plan deals with construction and major city purchases. It differs from the annual operating budget, which includes funding for employees and day-to-day government work.
By the numbers: More than $103 million in O'Connell's proposal would go toward improvements to bridges, roads, bikeways, sidewalks and traffic signals.
- These projects are separate from plans that will be funded by the city's new dedicated transportation funding.
- That total includes $33.5 million for infrastructure work on the East Bank, which will be home to the new Titans stadium and several other development projects.
What he's saying: "Our neighbors overwhelmingly told us this month that they want a better transportation future, and the investments in this capital spending plan prepare us for the work to come from Choose How You Move," O'Connell said in a statement.
More than $98 million would go to Metro Schools, much of which would fund deferred maintenance projects across the county.
- That funding would also support the installation of new solar panels at Inglewood Elementary, Overton High School and West End Middle School.
Another $89 million would go toward improvements at city-managed facilities and upgrades to the city's fleet of vehicles, including new firetrucks.
Parks would get $27.8 million to increase accessibility, improve facilities and boost safety efforts.
What's next: O'Connell's capital spending plan requires Metro Council approval.