As of noon today, residents and tourists in Gatlinburg can traverse Cherokee Orchard Road once again, following a brief yet vital closure for repairs due to a slope failure. The necessary work began on September 22, prompting a full blockade of the critical corridor, and was wrapped up expediently within a mere 12 days. Blalock Construction, the firm awarded the contract for these emergency repairs, diligently followed the schedule, according to official statements from the City of Gatlinburg.
According to the City of Gatlinburg, City Manager Greg Patterson expressed his gratitude, stating, "We are grateful for the community’s patience and understanding during this emergency repair project," He continued, emphasizing the importance of the road by adding, "The swift completion of this work by Blalock Construction and the Gatlinburg Street Department ensures the long-term safety and stability of both the roadway and the surrounding slope." Cherokee Orchard Road is more than just asphalt and lines; it's an artery that sustains the lifeblood of Gatlinburg's community and thriving tourist economy, providing access to essential services and cherished natural landscapes.
For Gatlinburg, a city that annually lures millions of eyes eager to swath themselves in its verdant charm and homely allure, maintenance of its infrastructure is a testament to its resilience and commitment to both its citizens and global visitors. Patterson further underscored this, assuring, "Cherokee Orchard Road is an essential route for our citizens and visitors, and restoring its full access as quickly as possible was a top priority for the City." The city urges those interested in staying informed to visit the official Gatlinburg website or follow their social media pages on platforms like Facebook and others for the most current updates, or by downloading the city's mobile app available on both Apple and Google Play stores.
