Overlook in Great Smoky Mountains National Park; image by Jeaneane Payne

In a show of unity and proactive leadership, Sevier County, alongside its cities—Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Pittman Center—has teamed up with Blount County, Cocke County, the State of Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, the State of North Carolina, and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to formulate a comprehensive plan aimed at sustaining the operations of Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the ongoing federal government shutdown that commenced on October 1.

While the park remains accessible via main roadways, several key services and popular attractions, including the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Cades Cove Picnic Area, are regrettably closed. This has prompted local and state governments to collaborate with the National Park Service, striving to reinstate these vital facilities and ensure that visitors can enjoy the full breadth of experiences that the park has to offer.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park holds the title of the most visited national park in the United States, underscoring its pivotal role in the region's economy and cultural fabric, particularly as autumn draws in scores of tourists eager to bask in its breathtaking scenery. Recognizing the significance of maintaining accessibility to this natural treasure, the partnering governments are diligently working to implement strategies that will mitigate any disruption caused by the shutdown.

Details regarding the anticipated agreement are being finalized, with further information on park operations and funding expected to be communicated soon. For updates on specific areas currently closed, please refer to the National Park Service website: [National Park Website].

This collaborative effort not only highlights the commitment of these governing bodies to preserve the park’s integrity but also emphasizes their shared dedication to supporting the local economy and enriching the visitor experience. Together, we will ensure that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to thrive, even amid challenges.

All of these groups have met tremendous challenges time after time and have always come together to find a way to get the job done. They won't fail us now.