The State Building Commission approved an energy‑saving performance contract for Riverbend Maximum Security Institution (RMSI) in Nashville aimed at modernizing aging HVAC and mechanical infrastructure.

Assistant Commissioner Bobby Strata introduced the item on behalf of the Tennessee Department of Correction and said RMSI was constructed in 1988 and continues to operate with much of its original HVAC and mechanical equipment designed for a 20‑year service life. "Despite the outstanding effort of facility maintenance staff to maintain these aging systems, many are now in critical condition, jeopardizing the reliability, efficiency, and occupant comfort," Strata said. He said the project identifies opportunities to reduce energy and operations costs by more than $1,000,000 annually and described the project as financially self‑sustaining.

Strata said the project will be delivered in partnership with energy services contractor Naresco using the energy‑saving performance contract delivery method. The commission moved, seconded and approved the project by voice vote; the transcript records adoption but does not include a roll‑call tally.

The presentation focused on system condition, projected annual savings and the delivery approach; specifics on contract dollars, guaranteed savings language, or timelines were not provided in the meeting record.