Nashville MTA board adopts FY2027 operating budget, citing service expansions under 'Choose How You Move'

The Nashville MTA board adopted the agency’s proposed operating budget for fiscal year 2027 after a presentation and brief Q&A on June 25.

Amanda Vandergri, presenting the proposal, said the total operating plan reflects significant service expansion tied to the Choose How You Move program and higher personnel and benefit costs. She described the package as a 12.9% increase over the prior year and noted the budget assumes growth in operator headcount to support scheduled service additions and continued investment in paratransit and security.

Vandergri told the board the budget divides expenses across operations, maintenance, benefits and administrative functions and that staff expects general fund support and Choose How You Move funding to be major revenue sources. She summarized revenue shares shown in staff materials: passenger revenue, other operating revenues, Metro general funds, Choose How You Move funds, state support and capital operating reimbursements.

Board members asked how recently approved insurance renewals and year‑end 2026 projections are reflected. Vandergri said the insurance items discussed earlier in the meeting were included in the FY2027 figures and that staff will present year‑end actuals once the 2026 accounts are closed.

The board moved, seconded and approved the operating budget as presented. The agency said the plan funds near‑term service increases, expanded link zones and pilot programs such as a journey pass, and that staff will continue to align operating costs with available funding.

Next steps: staff will finalize the budget documents for implementation and return to the board with routine financial reports and any adjustments tied to year‑end closing.