Tennessee Faces $82.7 Billion in Infrastructure Needs Through 2029

Report highlights $50M Clarksville athletic complex as part of $3.6B in recreation and culture needs

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Tennessee needs at least $82.7 billion worth of public infrastructure improvements during the five-year period of July 2024 to June 2029, according to a new report by the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR). The increase was driven by a $3.7 billion rise in Transportation and Utilities infrastructure needs, as well as a $978 million increase in Education infrastructure needs. Recreation and Culture infrastructure needs also grew by $231 million, including a $50 million athletic complex project in Clarksville.

Why it matters

Tennessee's infrastructure needs have grown significantly, reflecting the state's continued growth and development. The report highlights the need for substantial investment across various sectors, from transportation to education, to ensure the state's infrastructure can support its residents and economy. The Clarksville athletic complex project is one example of the type of recreation and culture improvements being planned to meet community needs.

The details

The $82.7 billion in infrastructure needs represents a 6.5% increase from the previous year. Transportation and Utilities needs grew by $3.7 billion, or 74% of the overall increase, due to new projects and cost increases. Education needs rose by $978 million, largely driven by post-secondary projects. Recreation and Culture needs increased by $231 million, including a $50 million athletic complex in Clarksville and a $30 million recreation and aquatics center in Mount Juliet.

  • The report covers the five-year period from July 2024 to June 2029.
  • The increase in total infrastructure needs represents a 6.5% rise from the previous year.

The players

Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR)

A state agency that serves as a forum for discussing and resolving intergovernmental problems, and provides research support to state and local government officials in Tennessee.

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What’s next

The report will be used by state and local officials to prioritize and plan infrastructure investments across Tennessee over the next five years.

The takeaway

Tennessee's growing infrastructure needs highlight the state's continued development and the importance of strategic, long-term planning to ensure the state's transportation, education, recreation, and other critical systems can support its residents and economy.