NEWPORT-Work continues to see that Hwy. 321 is named an American Scenic Byway.

On Friday, representatives from five of the seven Tennessee counties bisected by the highway gathered at the Newport/Cocke County Community Center to continue work on this project.

Vicki Simms, Executive Director of the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce, chaired the meeting and told the group, "We're excited that TDOT included the entire 321 corridor in their plan."

Simms recounted progress made in the project to date, pointing out that it has already received an America's Scenic Byways Grant of $125,000 for the creation of an overall corridor management plan, which will enable the protection of the natural, cultural, and historic integrity of the corridor, while at the same time enhancing the visitor experience to the region and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Goals of the project include the continued reinforcement of the belief that long-term sustainability of the region's mountain heritage and rich culture remains a high priority.

"We want everyone on board," said Simms, in reference to the fact that seven counties will be impacted by this project.

Already cooperative efforts between Cocke County, Gatlinburg, and the State Department of Tourism have resulted in billboards on I-40 and I-81 which promote Hwy. 321 as an alternative route to the Great Smoky Mountains.

"MSNBC has recognized Hwy. 321 as one of their top 3 unique driving destinations in the nation," said Simms.

Because Hwy. 25E has already achieved Scenic Byway status, Simms said it is important that regional dialog concerning the two highways continue so that these corridors compliment one another.

"We also continue to encourage cooperation between TDOT and the National Park regarding the Foothills Parkway and its development as it relates to Hwy. 321," she added.

Katie Habgood of the Knoxville Planning Office, also spoke.

"In the corridor management plan, we need to do two things: complete an inventory of the route's intrinsic qualities and plan and make recommendations for the corridor's future regarding its preservation and the enhancement of what's already there."

Both Simms and Habgood praised Cocke County's leadership in the project, pointing out the counties had to provide $25,000 to get the other $100,000.

"Cocke County was one of only two counties to come forward," she said.

"We would like to see a true commitment from each of the seven counties. Originally we asked for $5,000 from each county."

Cocke County Tourism Director Linda Lewanski, who recently traveled to Washington, D. C. for to accept the plaque recognizing Hwy. 25E's Scenic Byway status, gave a brief overview of that project's history and success.