Nov 21, 2025 - News

O'Connell proposes new funding for schools, potholes and East Bank

Nate Rau

Photo illustration of Freddie O'Connell with lines radiating from him. — Photo illustration: Axios Visuals. Photo: Terry Wyatt/Getty Images

Mayor Freddie O'Connell filed a $532 million capital spending plan Friday to add new schools, repair roads and build a new emergency communications center.

Why it matters: The annual plan outlines the construction and repair projects the city will invest in for the coming years.

🍎 Schools: The largest chunk of funding will go to Metro Nashville Public Schools, which is earmarked for $103 million in projects.

MNPS plans to spend $28.5 million for a new elementary school in Antioch, along with $8 million to initiate design upgrades at McGavock High.

🛣️ Transportation: O'Connell committed $49.9 million for the Department of Transportation to repair roads, including patching potholes.

The new transportation projects are in addition to upgrades under O'Connell's Choose How You Move program.

🏥 First responders: The new emergency communications center will cost $18 million, according to the mayor's office. The project will also house the city's Office of Emergency Management.

Plus: O'Connell proposed funds toward a new fire hall in South Nashville.

🏗️ East Bank: The capital spending plan includes $38 million for the East Bank Development Authority, including the area's road and infrastructure grid.

What's next: The Metro Council must sign off on the spending plan.

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O'Connell proposes new funding for schools, potholes and East Bank

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