Excavation begins for the Nashville high-speed tunnel project, enhancing transport links.
Nashville, August 14, 2025
The Boring Company has begun construction on a high-speed tunnel project that will connect downtown Nashville to the Nashville International Airport. The excavation started at a state-owned lot, and the project aims to improve transport efficiency for residents and visitors. With a focus on zero emissions, the privately funded venture is set to open its first section by 2027, following thorough geological assessments and community engagement efforts.
The Boring Company has officially kicked off excavation work in Nashville for a new high-speed tunnel intended to connect downtown to the Nashville International Airport. The construction commenced on a state-owned parking lot located at 637 Rosa L. Parks Blvd., marking a significant step toward enhancing transportation in the Music City.
This project, however, requires additional approval from both state and federal officials before excavation can extend beyond the current site. The Tennessee State Building Commission has granted the Boring Company a rent-free lease for the land, which is set to last through 2027. Under the terms of this lease, the company is required to return the parking lot in “the same or a better condition” than it was found. Importantly, the state can terminate the lease if satisfactory construction progress is not demonstrated.
Although construction activities are underway, the site still has a visible hole that measures about the width of four standard-sized parking spots. This excavation is currently surrounded by three layers of fencing to prevent public access. Equipment and workers have been spotted at the site, but the proprietary boring machine, known as Prufrock, has not yet been seen.
The Boring Company has released a draft map outlining the proposed tunnel path, which is set to commence at the Tennessee State Capitol and traverse through Rosa L. Parks Boulevard, 8th Avenue S., the Music City Center, Lafayette Street, Murfreesboro Pike, ultimately reaching the airport. Locations for the airport and the State Capitol stations remain unconfirmed, and a proposal for a station at the Music City Center is still pending a vote by the Convention Center Authority, which has shown general support.
Once operational, passengers will board a Tesla Model X or Y at designated stations, expecting to travel to their destination in under 10 minutes. The Boring Company has estimated a wait time of approximately 10 seconds for passengers getting in and out of the vehicles. While pricing details for the Music City Loop tunnel have not yet been finalized, it is expected to resemble the fare structure of the Las Vegas Loop, where ride costs range from $4 to $12.
This ambitious project is being funded privately, asserting that it will have zero emissions once in operation, thus requiring no taxpayer dollars for its construction or ongoing operation. Actual tunnel construction is expected to start in the last quarter of 2025, pending the completion of design and permitting processes. The Boring Company aims for the first segment of the tunnel to open by 2027.
The project will involve twin tunnels running approximately 30 feet underground to avoid existing utility lines, with an array of major stops evaluated along its route. Safety features are a top priority, and the tunnels will meet National Fire Protection Association standards, incorporating gas and smoke detection systems, fire suppression methods, and adequate ventilation systems.
Concerns regarding Nashville’s hard limestone and geological stability have been addressed, with the Boring Company assuring that their equipment is capable of handling these challenging conditions. The tunnels will be designed to be watertight, equipped with management systems for potential water intrusion, including elevated stations and high-power sump pumps.
The Boring Company is committed to maintaining transparency throughout the construction process. Plans for public meetings are in place, and there is a dedicated email for community inquiries. Metro Nashville officials have sent a letter to the company with over 70 questions related to emergency access, profit forecasts, and environmental studies. Although the company has yet to respond directly to these inquiries, there has been increased communication concerning the project’s details, which are now more readily available on the company’s website.
The project aims to establish a high-speed tunnel connection between downtown Nashville and the Nashville International Airport.
Construction of the actual tunnels is anticipated to begin in the last quarter of 2025.
Passengers will be able to board specific Tesla models at designated stations, with a projected travel time of under 10 minutes.
The project is privately funded and will not utilize taxpayer dollars for its construction or operation.
The project will include gas/smoke detection, a fire suppression system, and ventilation systems to meet safety standards.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Start of Construction | Excavation has begun, with actual tunnel construction expected in late 2025. |
| Duration | First segment expected to open by 2027. |
| Tunnel Depth | Approximately 30 feet underground. |
| Transit Type | Tesla Model X or Y for passenger transit. |
| Travel Time | Under 10 minutes from downtown to the airport. |
| Funding | Privately funded, no taxpayer dollars used. |
| Environmental Impact | Zero emissions expected once operational. |
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