From Capitol to Concourse: What We've Learned About the Music City Loop

Design Phase & Site Prep: TBC is currently in the design stage. Site preparation for the first Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) launch is underway near the State Capitol and projected to continue through Q3 2025, with tunneling set to begin in Q4 2025 pending permits.

Operational Milestones: Earlier project materials and reporting identified Q1 2027 as a target for the first segment. The Boring Company's current Music City Loop FAQ, last updated Aug. 14, 2026, no longer publishes a first-segment opening date, so that earlier target should not be treated as the current schedule.

Current Activity: Excavation has already begun at an access point in a state-owned parking lot near the Capitol, following a no-cost lease approval.

TBC says construction will be privately funded; final agreements determine specific public and private cost responsibilities.

Fare pricing had not been released at the time of publication.

TBC says the system is being designed to meet applicable NFPA 130 requirements.

The company lists gas and smoke sensors, fire-suppression infrastructure, ventilation, a control center, cameras and trained drivers among planned safety features.

TBC lists watertight construction, elevated station elements, drainage systems and sump pumps among planned flood-mitigation measures.

Twin tunnels approximately 30 feet underground—deeper than typical utilities.

TBC says geotechnical surveys and monitoring will inform tunneling through Nashville limestone.

Potential stops discussed by TBC include Music City Center. Station locations and sizes remain subject to property agreements, design and regulatory review.

Initially human-driven Teslas, with potential future consideration for autonomous vehicles.

Vehicles offer private trips, but higher-capacity options may be used during peak demand (e.g., game days).

TBC says riders would purchase tickets online or through an app, with QR-code entry at stations.

The company says vehicles could reach speeds of up to 70 mph inside the tunnels.

TBC has launched a dedicated email (nashville@boringcompany.com) to collect questions and evolving FAQ content.

Bi-monthly blog updates (starting October 1, 2025) and local public meetings are planned.

TBC is performing borings, utility coordination, and station agreements with property owners—all subject to regulatory review.

Mayor’s Office Engagement: Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s office submitted over 60 questions relating to permitting, safety, emergency access, inspection regimes, flood risk, and coordination with other city transit plans.

Lack of Prior Studies: Records reveal that before announcing the project, the Governor’s office conducted no environmental, community, or impact assessments—a move that has drawn criticism for lack of transparency.

Official Accountability: Gov. Bill Lee affirmed that safety and security remain top priorities, emphasizing that the state will hold TBC accountable for performance and public welfare.