Rockslide on “The Dragon” to cost TN $2 million

The rockslide on “The Dragon” (US 129) in Tennessee may cost $2 million bucks to clear/repair.  The Dragon is actually one road I don’t believe we’ve traveled in all our trips to the Smokies.  I told my wife I want to get a Mazda Miata so we can drive it there.  I don’t think she’s gonna fall for that trip.  I’ll let you know if that ever happens:) 

It looks like there is a July 31 deadline to get the work completely done.  Who knows when it will be complete though.  If I hear more, I’ll let you know! In the meantime, there is a little more info at the link below…

http://www.newsobserver.com/2010/03/30/414010/2-million-contract-let-to-clear.html

Raymond

***This post brought to you by www.smokymountaintower.com.  If you’re looking for a great place to stay, right between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, with the best views in the area… (and right now, at a pretty crazy low price) check it out! We LOVE it.***

Landslide closes Hwy 441 down to 1 lane near NC/TN border

If it’s not a rockslide, it’s a landslide causing havoc for driving in and around the Smokies.  This time, it’s highway 441 in the park.  That’s the OTHER main route.  

This is the drive from Gatlinburg to Cherokee.  A landslide just past the NC/TN border has caused traffic to have to drive on just one lane.  Just to give you an idea of where this is, Newfound Gap is on the NC/TN border, so this is close to Newfound Gap. 

Find more info on this particular landslide at the link below.  

 http://www.reflector.com/state-news/landslide-slows-traffic-through-smoky-mountains-28721

-Raymond

***This post brought to you by www.smokymountaintower.com. If a landslide keeps you from doing what you want in the mountains, just head back to The Smoky Mountain Tower.  There is so much to do there, you will not even be upset about the landslides:) Check it out for your next trip to the Smokies!***

Dolly Parton Homecoming parade moved to May 8th

Dolly will be in town for her annual Homecoming parade May 8th this year.  They moved it for more daylight, and warmer weather. Sounds like a blast if you will be in the area that day. 

http://news.hospitality-1st.com/PigeonForge-040209.html

Dollywood opens for season today. Season pass sales up 7%!

Today is the first day of the season for Dollywood.  The article below points out that while visitors were down 6% last year (from 2007,) it was still their 3rd best year.  Now it looks like season pass sales are up 7%.  I love reading good economic news.  I hope you get a chance to enjoy Dollywood this year!

http://www.volunteertv.com/news/headlines/42019982.html

Dollywood’s site..

www.dollywood.com

Easter Arts and Crafts Show coming up April 8-11 in Gatlinburg

It is almost time for another Arts and Crafts show in Gatlinburg.  The Easter show takes place April 8-11.  If you are in town then, stop by the Gatlinburg convention center.  The best news is, it is FREE! 

Show website below… 

http://www.gatlinburgcrafts.com/craftshows.html

Blog post about show below….

http://www.cabinsforyou.com/gatlinburg_cabin_rental_blog/2009/03/smoky-arts-and-crafts-community-2009.html

Beautiful Spring Flowers in the Smokies…

Jeff Schoenfield is the owner of the ReMax franchise in Gatlinburg (along with his wife,) and I had him on my GoSmoky.com internet radio show last year… http://www.blogtalkradio.com/gosmoky/2008/09/03/Pigeon-Forge-Latest-plus-Real-Estate-in-the-Smokies

Anyhow, he has posted a couple of GREAT photos on his blog… check them out!!  Makes me want to head back up there right now:)

http://gatlinburg.blogspot.com/2009/03/spring-is-in-air-literally.html