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Future of Smoky Mountains Visitors Center
A community meeting has been set for discussions regarding the future of the Smoky Mountains Visitors Center on South Highway 321. The structure is owned by the East Tennessee Foundation but has been used as a venue for community activities as well as the headquarters for the Cosby FCE Club since 1995. The meeting is set for July 11th, 4:00 to 5:45 p.m., at the Newport Community Center, according to Michael T. McClamroch, President and CEO of the Foundation. McClamroch says since late 2013, the Foundation has been in communication with many constituents in Cocke County regarding the best use of the property, requesting input and ideas. He says discussions have gleaned several perspectives on potential uses of the property. "To allay fears from comments we have heard, we emphasize that any net proceeds from a future sale of the property would remain in Cocke County for the benefit of its nonprofit organizations and citizens," the President says. There had been suggestions that the property could increase in value if the new Cosby Highway route goes nearby. " Unfortunately, we have been advised by TDOT that this project has been moved to a 10 to 20 years-out projection due to budgetary constraints. We will continue to receive updates from TDOT in this regard," he said. There is concern about the appearance, stability, and safety of the building, and also the consideration of whether its current use is fulfilling the intent of the property’s original purpose. In February, a structural review of the building was obtained from a Certified Professional Engineer. "It was his opinion that the costs of bringing it into compliance with building codes, would be significantly higher than the value of the entire property. “His recommendation was to either demolish the building or sell it as is," says McClamroch. The announced meeting is aimed at addressing the current impasse on the future of the site. While the Foundation is seriously considering the possibility of razing the structure, McClamroch says he hopes to salvage the hand painted interior moonshine mural as well as the outdoor stage. Bettye Carver spokesperson for the Cosby FCE Club in response to McClamrock told the NewsSource, " I just hope those who wish to see the building remain as a community/visitors center come to the meeting."
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Return to Today's News Stories - Front PageThursday, April 29, 2021
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