The Biggest Construction Projects in the Southeast and the Skilled Labor Opportunities They Create

The Southeast is experiencing an unprecedented construction boom, with billions of dollars invested in infrastructure, education, technology, and community development. These projects are reshaping cities, driving economic growth, and creating a massive demand for skilled labor across multiple industries. From transportation upgrades and renewable energy megaprojects to mixed-use developments and data center expansions, this surge in construction is opening new opportunities for workers and communities alike.

Top Construction Projects in the Southeast in 2025

1. South Carolina Interstate Revamp

South Carolina has launched a sweeping $825 million initiative to widen a critical 10-mile stretch of I‑95 and replace the aging Savannah River bridges, an urgent improvement for one of the fastest-growing states in the nation. Alongside this, a $2 billion overhaul of the I‑20, I‑26, and I‑126 intersection in Columbia is underway, with the state also planning a massive $7 billion reconstruction of I-526 around Charleston.

2. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Modernization

Charlotte is undergoing a major educational transformation thanks to a $2.5 billion bond passed in 2023. North Mecklenburg High School is receiving $228.5 million in upgrades, while South Mecklenburg will get $127.9 million. Both campuses will feature new academic buildings and athletic facilities, supporting modern learning environments for up to 2,500 students each.

3. River District Master Plan, Charlotte

The River District, Mecklenburg County’s largest undeveloped tract, is turning into a vibrant mixed-use community. Spanning 1,400 acres, the plan includes millions of square feet of retail, office, and residential spaces: 2,350 multifamily units, 2,300 single-family homes, and over 500 acres of green space. Work includes the NOVEL River District’s new apartment complex, affordable housing projects, and expanded infrastructure, such as bike-friendly lanes.

4. Hyundai EV Megaplant, Georgia

Georgia is home to Hyundai’s first U.S. electric vehicle and battery plant in Ellabell, a groundbreaking $7.6 billion project covering 2,900 acres. With production slated for 2025, the plant aims to manufacture 300,000 EVs annually and will involve over 2,000 workers during construction, plus support another 6,000 supplier jobs.

5. Data Center Boom & Power Infrastructure

The Southeast is experiencing a surge in data center construction, especially around Atlanta, driven by tech giants like Meta and Google. Although the expansion is accelerating, it’s placing pressure on energy, land use, and communities. Meanwhile, $1.5 billion in federal funding is going toward key power grid transmission projects like the Southern Spirit link that will span Mississippi, Louisiana, and beyond, creating approximately 9,000 jobs.

6. Jacksonville Riverfront Plaza

Jacksonville is transforming its riverfront into a dynamic public space. Phase 1, already underway, includes a playground atop a café, event lawns, and restored riverwalk bulkheads, aiming for completion by late 2025. Phase 2 will add pedestrian bridges, rain gardens, and new recreational space by 2027.

7. Shelby Bypass, North Carolina

The Shelby Bypass (US‑74 Bypass) is an 18.5-mile, four-lane freeway under construction north of Shelby, NC. Two segments are live: one since 2020 and another completed mid-2025. The final section is under construction and is expected fully opened in 2029, a key regional transport upgrade.

8. Asheville Regional Airport Expansion

Asheville is expanding its regional airport with a new terminal featuring 12 gates (up from 7), a second story, jet bridges, and a modern control tower. With $400 million in total cost through state bonds, work kicked off in 2023 and is slated for completion in 2026.

9. Charlotte Gateway Station

A future intermodal transit hub in Charlotte, set to open between 2026–2027, will connect Amtrak, light rail, buses, and include mixed-use development and a greenway. The project’s estimated cost is $800 million.

10. Centennial Yards, Downtown Atlanta

This massive $5 billion, 50-acre redevelopment in downtown Atlanta repurposes railyards into a mixed-use district with 4 million sq ft of offices, 1,000 hotel rooms, residential units, entertainment venues, and retail. Groundbreaking occurred in 2024, with planned completion by 2030

11. Music City Loop Airport Tunnel, Downtown Nashville

This 10-mile underground transit tunnel connects the airport to downtown. Spearheaded by Elon Musk’s Boring Company, the privately funded project aims to cut travel time to just 8–10 minutes using high-speed, zero-emission vehicles. Construction could begin as early as late 2025, with the first segment expected to open by fall 2026. If successful, it would revolutionize Nashville’s transportation network and set a new benchmark for innovative infrastructure in the Southeast.

Massive Construction Projects Create Record Demand for Specialized Trades

For local communities, the benefits extend far beyond job creation. These projects fuel economic stability by attracting new businesses, boosting tax revenues, and improving access to housing, transportation, and recreational spaces. Redevelopment initiatives like the River District and Centennial Yards are revitalizing underutilized land into vibrant, mixed-income neighborhoods, while infrastructure projects improve connectivity and quality of life. Meanwhile, programs supporting upskilling and apprenticeship training are preparing the next generation of skilled workers to meet evolving industry demands, ensuring that communities grow alongside these megaprojects.

Building the Southeast’s Future: Jobs, Innovation, and Resilient Communities

In many ways, the Southeast is redefining its future through construction. From highways and schools to EV manufacturing and data centers, these transformative projects are driving innovation and prosperity while strengthening the region’s workforce. By embracing smart staffing solutions, investing in training, and fostering community partnerships, the Southeast is positioning itself not just to build structures but to build stronger, more resilient communities for decades to come.