Mayor: Taxpayers Off the Hook for Titans’ New $2B Stadium

Taxpayers will not be on the hook for costs associated with the construction of a new stadium for the NFL’s Tennessee Titans, according to Nashville mayor John Cooper. 

The Titans — valued at $2.6 billion — have planned to build a 1.7 million-square-foot, domed stadium, which is estimated to cost between $1.9 billion and $2.2 billion. Slated to open for the 2026 NFL season, the stadium could also host major sporting events, including the Super Bowl. 

• The Adams family, owners of the team, will contribute $700 million to the new facility.
• Tennessee lawmakers have approved $500 million in bonds for the venue.
• Metro Nashville Sports Authority will add another $700 million to the state’s commitment.

Mayor Cooper’s willingness to not have taxpayers help pay for the Titans’ new stadium comes amid delays to upgrade Nissan Stadium, the team’s home field since 1999. 

Nissan Stadium was scheduled to undergo several maintenance projects in recent years, but a budget deficit and the global pandemic put plans on hold. 

Long-Term Plan 

The Titans’ current lease at Nissan Stadium requires the city of Nashville and taxpayers to pay for maintenance. Currently, the team is owed at least $25 million in completed repairs.

Even though the Titans are expected to pay nearly double the estimated cost of the upgrades to build a new stadium, the move is considered a long-term financial decision.