OREANDA-NEWS. S&P Global Ratings revised the outlook to positive from stable and affirmed its 'AA+' long-term rating and underlying rating (SPUR) on Rutherford County, Tenn.'s general obligation (GO) debt. At the same time, we have assigned our 'AA+' long-term rating to the county's series 2016A GO refunding bonds and 2016B GO public improvement and school bonds. The outlook is positive.

"The outlook revision reflects our assessment of the county's expanding economy, which has led to improving wealth and income levels, and its continued strengthening of its financial position through strong budgetary performance," said S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Joshua Travis.

The series 2016A bond proceeds will be used to refund a portion of the county's GO debt outstanding for interest savings. The 2016B bond proceeds will be used to fund the construction of a new judicial center as well as a new middle school.