East Bank Authority approves $80M for Marine Drive extension

The Marine Drive Extension will run from the T-intersection of Marine Drive and Cowan Street east to Dickerson Pike (SR-11/US-41), passing under I-24. TDOT is procuring the project through design-build, with HNTB leading design coordination.

On Aug. 25, the East Bank Development Authority approved up to $80 million for the extension and other improvements along Cowan Street. Funding comes from tourism tax dollars through the Convention Center Authority, pending Metro Council legislation.

TDOT shortlisted three design-build teams on July 7: Kiewit Infrastructure South Co., MasTec Civil LLC with lead designer Stantec Consulting Services Inc., and Shimmick Construction Co. Inc. with lead designer Arcadis U.S. Inc. A contract is expected by May 2027, with construction tentatively slated to begin by December 2027.

The project includes a potential I-24 overpass and replacement of the I-24 bridge over the new Marine Drive. It ties to the state's pledge to Oracle Corp., whose East Bank campus will overlook the Cumberland River. A fast turnaround is a priority before Nashville hosts the 2029 Super Bowl, with completion targeted for June 2029.