NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The new Tennessee Titans stadium is one of the biggest development projects in Nashville’s history, but several construction workers say the worksite comes with a troubling tradeoff: a growing fear that their vehicles will be targeted while they’re on the job.
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Workers told NewsChannel 5 that repeated car break-ins have created anxiety, leaving many questioning why more security measures aren’t already in place. The latest incidents took place in parking areas near Nissan Stadium, where workers leave their vehicles for long shifts.
One worker, who asked to remain anonymous due to job concerns, described the emotional strain that has come with the thefts and the lack of consistent protection. “You feel betrayed by the people you’re working for, and you’re losing a sense of security,” he said.
The worker recalled a massive break-in earlier this year.
“About three months ago or so, we had about 50 cars broken into,” he said. “That’s when the guys had guns, and they have cameras on the lot.”
Following that incident, both Metro Police and the general contractor, the Tennessee Builders Alliance (TBA), increased oversight. But workers said a pattern soon emerged again — this time tied to gaps in weekend security.
“Come to find out, TBA wasn’t hiring the security guards for Saturdays,” he said. “Their response to us was, ‘Oh, the criminals must have gotten smart and realized we didn’t have security on Saturdays,’ even though we work every single Saturday.”
The worker said laborers are putting in 10-hour days only to return and find windows smashed, consoles ripped apart, and personal items gone. Some of the stolen belongings aren’t easily replaced.
“Stuff that’s been passed down from their parents, little personal things — even if they’re refunded, what’s it worth if you can’t replace something that was handed down to you?” he said.
Metro Police confirmed that in several incidents, firearms were stolen from vehicles — something they say is not surprising given the workforce demographic.
“It’s not shocking — construction workers and guns go hand in hand,” the worker said.
When asked if removing items from cars could deter theft, his response showed how indiscriminate the criminals have been.
“One of the cars that got broken into was unlocked,” he said. “They didn’t even check to see if it was unlocked — they’re just smashing and grabbing.”
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Despite the frustration, workers still expressed enthusiasm for helping build an iconic venue for Nashville’s future.
“I’m a Titans fan and love to be a part of it and come together,” he said.
But that pride comes with a question they feel must be addressed: why should building a stadium for thousands mean risking their own safety and financial loss?
“How can you focus on the job if you’re worried about, ‘Is my car going to get broken into today?’” he said.
Metro Police said they have increased patrols in Lot N and are moving a SkyCop surveillance tower back into position. They also noted that Central Precinct has added another surveillance system aimed at preventing additional theft.
Workers told NewsChannel 5 that TBA does reimburse them for broken vehicle windows and damage. However, many say there’s a financial burden involved that hits them when they can least afford it — they must pay the cost upfront and wait for reimbursement, something they describe as unfair for a growing problem they believe could be prevented.
With thefts recurring and weekend security lapses revealed, workers say they want consistent staffing, visible monitoring, and procedures that help keep their livelihoods safe while they build a landmark for Nashville.
They hope solutions aren’t delayed any longer, and that safety at the jobsite finally becomes as important as safety inside the stadium itself once it opens.
Originally reported by Aaron Cantrell in News Channel 5.
