Letter from the Mayor Our hometown in the Smokies! - Mayor Bryan Atchley
What a truly exciting time to live and work in Sevierville! Over the past several years, our City has continued to grow in leaps and bounds. Being a life-long native of Sevierville, I have watched this city evolve from a quiet mountain town into a tourist destination and bustling county seat. Still, Sevierville has remained home to some of the warmest, friendliest people in Tennessee and the Southeast. My enthusiasm for Sevierville is most sincere and is a natural way of life for those of us fortunate enough to call this place home. Mayor Bryan Atchley
The growth of Sevierville shows positive indicators for a city of its size. This progressive way of thinking and the desire for growth, not only from the city officials but also from the citizens I have been elected to represent, is what gives Sevierville its strength. The city is blessed with solid and forward-thinking leaders who are dedicated to improving our standard of living and maintaining our strong heritage.
Operating as the county seat for Sevier County, Sevierville has developed as a diverse business community and serves as the area’s hub for banking and legal services. This diversity has provided Sevierville with a strong and stable economy built around industry, retail and professional services. The downtown area, home to many professional businesses, will be undergoing a facelift and will benefit from the planned development of a large parking facility and trolley system hub in the near future.
Tourism in the area promises the most explosive growth. In Tennessee, tourism represents an $8 billion industry. For this reason, the city of Sevierville has made a commitment to attract major commercial developers with visions for expansive projects. To this end, Sevierville has been developing a $200 million Central Business Improvement District project that includes the recently opened state of the art Sevierville Events Center, which features a 108,000 square foot exhibit hall and a privately funded 260+ room hotel with an outdoor water park. Highly acclaimed Eagles Landing Golf Club is adding another 18-hole course and revamping the current course as well. The project is also funding significant infrastructure improvements, such as new and expanded roadways.
On the retail front, Sevierville continues to attract large scale interest. Planned to open in the next several years is a 1.2 million square foot diverse retail development near Interstate 40 and a 700,000 square foot upscale development adjacent to the new Events Center.
Growth of this magnitude will continue to take Sevierville into the future … where residents will enjoy higher standards of living, a better infrastructure and a strong economy.
For example, Sevierville will soon be home to a truly regional health care center with the planned opening in 2009 of the new Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center campus. And just down the street from the Municipal Complex, the new Sevier County Library main branch will be built and include a children’s center, computing lab, teen cyber café and Sevier County history and genealogy centers.
Sevierville holds a very special place in my heart. After living here all of my life and having raised and educated a wonderful family in Sevierville, the memories I have made here and shared with my family and friends are irreplaceable. My family and I feel very fortunate to call Sevierville our home.
The idea of calling Sevierville home is appealing for many different reasons. But, the number one reason Sevierville is such an appealing place to live is its citizens. When you’re looking for warm Southern hospitality, there’s no better place to start than right here in the hills of East Tennessee. Whether it’s helping a tourist with directions, greeting a neighbor in the grocery store or welcoming new members to church, Sevierville residents cannot be surpassed in genuine warmth and friendliness.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 1 Letter from the Chief Executive Officer Sevierville Chamber of Commerce
Sevierville, Tennessee is many things to many people. To some, Sevierville is a shopping and vacation hub. To others, it is a developing destination that is ideal for their business operation. While it is the role of the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce to promote Sevierville to visitors and businesses, we are always mindful that first and foremost, Sevierville is our hometown and we want to welcome you.
The Sevierville Chamber of Commerce is a diverse group of individuals and businesses led by a board of directors that set our policies and oversee the actions of the Chamber. These individuals and businesses guide the chamber in its promotion of tourism and business development programs.
For many years, tourism has been a large part of what makes the entire Great Smoky Mountains area such a special place to live. Whether it’s providing money to our schools, additions to our city parks or improvements to our roads, tourism keeps all aspects of Sevierville’s economy growing and gives our residents the quality of life they deserve Brenda McCroskey with the added advantage of living in a vacation destination. Chief Executive Officer
Sevierville is in an ideal location. Because we are at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park, and right beside nationally-known towns Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, we are blessed to have some of the top vacation activities nationwide, including Dollywood, either within a few minutes from downtown Sevierville or right within our corporate city limits. The combination of these things has helped our town draw many visitors over the years, and we project that the future will be even brighter. Sevierville is currently undergoing an exciting period of growth that will bring many new attractions, outdoor adventures, shopping opportunities, entertainment venues, restaurants, and lodging properties to our city. These new beacons for tourism will complement Sevierville’s existing activities and attractions and help draw new visitors to the area.
To help bring new visitors here, the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce promotes our city with Internet, television, radio and print advertising as well as our official tourism website www.VisitSevierville.com. The resulting vacation inquiries are fulfilled with publications such as the Sevierville Vacation Planner, Sevierville Group Tour Planner, Smoky Mountains Wedding Planner and Sevierville Coupon Book. In addition to promoting all Sevierville has to see and do, the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce also organizes and promotes several events throughout the year including Springfest, Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass, Harvest Fest, Sevierville’s Winterfest Kick-off Music, Lights & Magic and the Sevierville Christmas Parade.
Because of the business and economic growth in Sevierville, it seems like everyone is working longer and harder these days to keep their businesses running smoothly. Many longtime residents remember the days of an “off season”, when motels and attractions would close from November through Memorial Day, but those days are long gone. Each year the Smoky Mountains area becomes more and more of a year-round destination and our businesses and residents are happy to see the continued positive growth.
Just like our businesses, the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce must work day in and day out to meet business needs and help our economy grow. Businesses that join the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce find an excellent value in membership, which offers advertising, marketing, educational and networking opportunities. The Sevierville Chamber, sometimes lovingly called “ridiculously active” by our membership, hosts monthly Coffee Talk and Business After or During Hours networking events as well as an annual educational series, the Chamber Membership Breakfast and the Annual Chamber Banquet.
While the Chamber of Commerce provides excellent benefits to business members, there are also many ways for business members to help us. Since the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest governing bodies in our community, Chamber members have the opportunity to actively participate in the growth and prosperity of our area by serving on one of our committees, including Beautification, Education, Marketing and Membership.
We hope that you enjoy life in Sevierville. As you settle in, it is important to remember that the people who live and work here are responsible for making Sevierville a wonderful place to reside and a destination millions of people want to visit. It is those same people who make up the caring board, membership and staff of the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce. This action-oriented organization has been designed by our community to meet its needs. Simply put, the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce is people working together to make their community the best place to live and work.
For more information on Sevierville and the surrounding area or to become a member of the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce, contact us at 1-888- SMOKY 4-U or, locally 865-453-6411 or visit us online at www.SCOC.org.
Thank you,
Brenda McCroskey Chief Executive Officer Sevierville Chamber of Commerce
2 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Contents
4 WELCOME TO SEVIERVILLE
5 INNOVATIVE WASTE MANAGEMENT
6 AREA STATISTICS
7 UTILITIES & SERVICES
11 GOVERNMENT
13 POLICE
15 FIRE 17 17 POST OFFICE & TROLLEY
18 CHURCHES
19 LIBRARY
21 CIVIC CENTER
22 PARKS & RECREATION
26 GENERAL TELEPHONE 32 NUMBERS 27 ROAD RULES
28 EDUCATION
31 TENNESSEE SMOKIES BASEBALL
32 HOSPITAL
33 BUSINESS & INDUSTRY
35 EAGLE’S LANDING GOLF CLUB 38 37 GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
38 FESTIVALS & EVENTS
39 SEVIERVILLE HISTORY
41 RETIRING TO SEVIERVILLE
Front cover photo courtesy of 42 DOLLY PARTON “Reasons to Remember” the RobertCover A. image Tino courtesy Gallery of the 42 Robert A. Tino Gallery SEVIERVILLE, TN 3
Sevierville, Sevier County and the Great Smoky Mountains are an extremely popular vacation destination visited by close to 13,000,000 guests each year. Where can I take my recyclables? We strive to maintain a pleasant environment for each of those guests and In Sevierville: our residents by properly managing the 127,000 tons of solid waste produced Sevierville Public Works Dept. each year. 310 Robert Henderson Road Sevierville, TN 37862 In order to minimize the impact of this waste production on the land, Sevier County built and began utilizing one of the most advanced composting facilities Sevierville Municipal Complex in the world in 1992. This facility is operated by Sevier Solid Waste, which also 200 Gary Wade Blvd operates recycling programs to turn wood waste into mulch as well as recycle Sevierville, TN 37862 metal, cardboard, tires, used motor oil and newspapers. In Gatlinburg: In order to maximize effectiveness and make the greatest reduction in waste, Gatlinburg Service Center Garage Sevier Solid Waste focuses on composting and recycling organics, because 948 Newman Road they make up 60 percent of the waste stream in Sevier County. While Sevier Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Solid Waste has an extensive recycling program, they have only recently Gatlinburg Community Center introduced a pilot program for glass and plastic recycling, because those items 156 Proffitt Road only make up 13 percent of the overall waste stream in the county. By focusing Gatlinburg, TN 37738 on the largest waste stream (organics) and gradually introducing other recycling programs, Sevier County is proud to have waste reduction numbers that are over 2.5 times the national average. Best of all, our residents don’t have to worry about sorting or separating waste in order for it to be composted. Sevier Solid Waste takes care of the compost material sorting for our residents - simply throw your garbage away.
Since Sevier Solid Waste built its composting facility in 1992, visitors from Sweden, Ireland, Russia, Spain, China, Australia and other countries have toured this state-of-the-art facility. To date, there are only 10 similar facilities in the world that utilize the same type of composting technology. This composting facility and our recycling programs allow us to reduce our total solid waste production by 70 percent (according to the Environmental Protection Agency, the national average for waste reduction via composting and recycling is only 27 percent). This means that less than 40,000 tons go into landfills each year, and our county is a little cleaner.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 5 Area Statistics Beyond the awards and designations, HERE ARE SOME QUICK FACTS TO HELP YOU SETTLE Sevierville’s cost of living and quality of life INTO YOUR NEW HOME IN SEVIERVILLE. give our residents something to celebrate. CLIMATE Population: 17,500 Sevierville enjoys a great climate year round. The average high temperature o o Median cost of a new home: $183,000 during July is 87 F while the average low is 65 F. Even during the winter Sevierville has a very good climate for outdoor activities. The average high Median age of residence: 37.2 temperature during January is 40o F while the average low is 25o F. Average Median family income: $33,200 rainfall is 51 inches while the average snowfall is 10 inches here in the Average household size: 2.3 people valley. Sevierville’s elevation is 942’ above sea level, with prevailing winds Percentage of family households: 64.1% from the Southwest.
GEOGRAPHY Sevierville is located beside her sister cities of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and is only minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and 26.4 miles from Knoxville, TN. Sevierville’s land area is 19.9 square miles with a population density of 747 people per square mile.
6 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Getting Started UTILITIES & SERVICES Important contacts to help you move in.
Making your new home in Sevierville is exciting! But getting the utilities turned on, registering a vehicle or knowing who to call in an emergency all require a lot of attention to details. The telephone numbers, addresses, and websites below are designed to get you well on your way to making Sevierville/Sevier County your home.
Sevier County Electric System TRANSFER OF EXISTING SERVICE The Sevier County Electric System requires each prospective customer desiring electric service to: Sign Sevier County Electric System’s standard application for service agreement. Post a deposit or acceptable guarantor’s agreement. Pay a service connection charge.
SERVICE FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION There are additional requirements for establishing service for new construction. To obtain new service each customer must also: Sign an easement. Obtain the necessary state electrical permits. (To be purchased by the person responsible for the electrical work.) Obtain subsurface sewage layout from county Health Department. Knoxville Utility Board Payment Center and Hours Sevier County Electric System can install electric service 445 S. Gay Street, M-F 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. only after satisfactory inspection has been performed by an authorized representative of the Division of Fire Prevention, 4218 Asheville Highway, M-F 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Department of Insurance, State of Tennessee. 4428 Western Avenue, M-F 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. DEPOSITS 865-577-4497 SCES requires all customers to post a deposit before obtaining 865-524-2911 electrical service. Customer deposits are held as long as the customer has active service. http://www.kub.org Current deposit amounts are as follows: Residential and Property Owners First Service $100.00 Appalachian Electric Additional Services $50.00 Renters $250.00 1109 Hill Drive New Market, TN 37820 PAYMENT LOCATIONS SCES customers may pay their electric bills in the following ways: 865-475-2032 By mail: SCES P.O. Box 4870 Sevierville, TN 37864 http://www.appalachianelectric.coop/ In person at main office 8:00 am-4:30pm In after-hours depository beside drive-through window At any area bank (current bills only) Through automatic bank draft Shady Grove Utility District Credit cards-will incur a charge 830 Hwy 139, Dandridge, TN 37725 865-397-3790 Sevier County Electric System 315 Main Street Sevierville, TN 37862 865-453-2887 www.electric.seviervilletn.org
SEVIERVILLE, TN 7 Garbage Collection Telephone
CITY LIMITS OF SEVIERVILLE AT&T Residential Curbside Garbage Collection • Brush Collection - Generally occurs every one-two weeks (no Residential Service 888-757-6500 particular scheduled day). Business Service 866-620-6000 • Loose Leaf Collection - Specific days to be advertised during the AT&T Business 800-945-6500 fall. All other times of the year, leaves and grass clippings may be www.att.com bagged for collection. • Household Bulk Rubbish (Junk) - Collected on Mondays. Call 865-429-4567 for the specific Monday schedule in your area. CHARTER MEDIA TELEPHONE SERVICE COUNTY RESIDENTS Toll-Free 888-438-2427 There are several Convenience Centers located throughout the County 628 Wall St. for garbage disposal. Please contact Sevier County Solid Waste at 865-428-0042. Sevierville, TN 37862 FEES The residential curbside garbage collection fee is $4.00 per month. NUVOX A 95-gallon can is provided for each city resident’s use, but it remains the property of the City of Sevierville. Each can’s serial number has 865-862-3133 been recorded with your address, so please take care of it and do not 1225 Weisgarber Rd. Ste. 280 take it with you if you move. Knoxville, TN 37909
For more information, please call 865-453-5504 or visit http://www.seviervilletn.org/DepartmentPages/PublicWorks.htm
GAS: Natural and Propane SEVIER COUNTY UTILITY DISTRICT 420 Robert Henderson Rd. Sevierville, TN 37862 865-453-3272 888-811-SCUD www.scudgas.org
SEVIER COUNTY PROPANE 705 West Main St. Sevierville, TN 37862 865-453-7877
8 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378
Television/Cable Water and Sewer WATE-TV-Channel 6 Knoxville, TN WVLT-TV-Channel 8 Knoxville, TN The City of Sevierville offers water and sewer service with billing WBIR-TV Channel 10 Knoxville, TN based on the number of gallons used. WTNZ-TV Channel 43 Knoxville, TN Water Charter Media 0-1,500 - $8.60 minimum charge 866-472-2200 1,501 and over - $4.15 per 1,000 gallons www.charter.com Local Newspapers Sewer Comcast Cable 0-1,500 - $10.02 minimum charge The Mountain Press 865-637-5411 865-428-0746 1,501 and over - $5.27 per 1,000 gallons www.comcast.com www.themountainpress.com For more information on water and sewer service please Sevier County News.Com contact the City of Sevierville 865-428-7654 120 Gary Wade Blvd, Sevierville, TN 37862 www.seviercountynews.com 865-453-5522 http://www.seviervilletn.org/DepartmentPages/Water.htm The Smoky Mountain Herald www.seymourherald.com
10 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Government Licenses & Registration TENNESSEE DRIVER’S LICENSE Tennessee Department of Safety Driver’s License Testing and Training Center 980 Eastgate Road Sevierville, TN 37862 865-429-7016 www.dmv.org/TN-Drivers-License
Newcomers have 30 days after establishing permanent residence to change their out-of-state license to a Tennessee license. If you have a valid license from another state, a vision test is all that is required. For a first-time license, you must have a certified birth certificate and pass a written law exam, a vision test and a road test. Applicants under the age of 18 must also have their school attendance verification from their principal’s office and must be Our Community accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Testing offices are CITY OF SEVIERVILLE open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 7:30 am to The City of Sevierville is governed by a Board of the Mayor and 6:00 pm. No testing after 4:30 pm. Aldermen in a home rule form of government. The Mayor is Motor Vehicle Registration elected at-large for a two year term and is a non-voting member Sevier County Courthouse of the Board of Aldermen. The Board of Aldermen consists of five 125 Court Avenue, Ste 202E members elected to four-year terms. The Board of Mayor and Sevierville, TN 37862 Aldermen meetings are held the first and third Mondays of each 865-453-5502 month at 7:00 pm at the Sevierville Civic Center, 130 Gary Wade www.seviercountyclerk.com Blvd, next door to City Hall and the Community Center. Newcomers must change their out-of-state vehicle registration at Sevierville City Hall the time residency is declared. To register your vehicle, you must 120 Gary Wade Blvd bring proof of title. If there is a lien-holder, bring the registration Sevierville, TN 37862 and name and address of the 865-453-5504 lien-holder. www.seviervilletn.org MARRIAGE LICENSE SEVIER COUNTY GOVERNMENT Sevierville Sevier County is made of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, 125 Court Ave., Ste 202E Pittman Center, Kodak, and Seymour. The county is governed by Sevierville, TN 37862 a board comprised of the Mayor of Sevier County and twenty five 865-453-5502 county commissioners. www.seviercountyclerk.com Mon. - Thurs. 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Fri. 8:00 am to 6:00 pm Sevier County Courthouse 865-453-5502 Gatlinburg www.seviercountytn.org 405 Reagan Drive VOTER REGISTRATION Gatlinburg, TN 37738 865-430-3404 Election Commission Mon. and Fri. 8:30 am to 4:00 pm 125 Court Avenue, Ste 208 Wed. 8:30 am to 12:00 pm Sevierville, TN 37862 Sat. 9:00 am to 1:00 pm 865-453-6985 New residents must be 18 years of age by the time of the next Pigeon Forge election and must have been a resident of Tennessee for at least 225 Pine Mountain Road 20 days. Registration books close 29 days prior to any election. Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 You may register at the Election Commission office, Driver’s 865-908-6613 License office, by mail or at certain government offices. Sat. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm SEVIERVILLE, TN 11 Government Continued
You may obtain your marriage license online at Sevierville Property tax rate Per $100 assessed value $0.31 www.SevierCounty Clerk.com. If you are a Tennessee Resident, Sevier County Property tax rate the cost is $98.50 for a Marriage License. However, you may Per $100 assessed value $1.34 attend a 4 (four) hour premarital preperation course and present Ratio of assessment-Residential Property 25% the County Clerk’s Office with the certificate of completion to Ratio of assessment-Industrial/Commercial Property 40% waive the $60.00 fee accessed for not taking this course. All Non- Ratio of assessment-Personal Equipment 30% Tennessee Residents getting married in Sevier County will pay $38.50. This lowered rate is available for out of state residents because Sevier County has a tourism zone categorization. If either the bride or groom has a Tennessee Drivers License the fee will be $98.50 without a premarital preparation course certificate of completion.
A few things to remember before driving to one of The Sevier County Clerk’s Locations: • Both the Bride and Groom Must be 18 years old. (Circumstances where one or both persons are under 18 (minors) may call our office for detailed rules under which marriage is allowed) • Both the Bride and Groom must have either a valid drivers license or birth certificate. If you are not a citizen of the United States, please bring your valid passport. Previously married persons must know the approximate date their divorce became official, or the approximate date of a spouse’s death. There are no waiting periods or blood tests. You may get married the same day as your license is issued. You may obtain your license up to 30 days before your wedding date. (Your License is only valid 30 days) • Both the Bride and Groom must be present to obtain a License. TAXES Taxes are an important matter to all residents and businesses in Sevierville/Sevier County. The following is the tax structure for Sevierville: Tax Description Tax Rate/Amount State Sales Tax 7% Local Sales Tax 2.5% Hotel/Motel Tax 2% State Income Tax NONE Amusement Tax NONE Gross Receipts Tax NONE Corporate Organization Fee NONE Motor Vehicle Tax NONE 12 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Police Sevierville Police Department 300 Gary Wade Blvd Sevierville, TN 37862 www.seviervilletn.org/police.htm The Sevierville Police Department has Several Community 24-Hour Non-Emergency Programs to help the residents of Sevierville. Below is a 865-453-5506 Police Dispatch / Operator listing of all the programs to help our many residents: 865-453-5507 Police Records Department W.H.A.L.E. (We Have A Little Emergency) - This program 865-453-7310 provides a means for emergency workers to assist Criminal Investigation Division your child should a parent become incapacitated in a 865-453-1986 traffic accident. A W.H.A.L.E. sticker goes on the back of your child’s car or booster seat and provides needed The Sevierville Police Department information in an emergency, such as your child’s name, medical needs, and was formed in 1901 and today serves emergency guardian contact information. Contact Sergeant Rebecca Cowan at 865-453-7310 ext 3001 a rapidly growing community of over 17,500 permanent residents and more Stranger Danger - A Police Officer visits Sevierville Primary School once than 13,000,000 visitors annually. The a year to teach kids about the danger of speaking with strangers. During Department patrols a 22 square mile area this class, children are empowered and taught how to act when a stranger containing 169 miles of roadways, several approaches them. They are also encouraged to develop a secret code word with their parents. The cons and traps used to fool kids are also discussed. nationally known attractions and several Contact Officer Laura Brooks at 865-453-7310 ext 3007 large retail centers. Children’s Bike Safety - The Sevierville Police Department offers bicycle The Department’s 55 sworn officers safety instruction at several events throughout the year. These classes include and 12 non-sworn support personnel bicycle safety, laws and proper helmet use. Bicycles can also be registered to aid in recovery if stolen. Contact Officer Laura Brooks at 865-453-7310 ext 3007 are organized into two divisions, a Patrol Division comprised of 4 shifts DUI Education Golf Cart - The SPD utilizes a specially outfitted golf cart and an Operational Support Division to educate students ages 13-18 on the effects of alcohol on driving skills. comprised of the Criminal Investigations, Students are given the opportunity to negotiate a driving course while wearing Communications and Records Units. special goggles that simulate impairment. Contact Officer Matt Ayers at 865-453-7310 ext 3011.
Kid’s Police Camp - Police Camp provides the opportunity for youths, 11-14 years of age, to learn basic police skills in a safe, fun and structured environment. Activities and classes are conducted primarily at the Sevierville Police Department with several local field trips. Contact Officer Laura Brooks at 865-453-7310 ext 3007
Gun Safety-Project Childsafe - The SPD promotes gun safety by educating children on the dangers of unattended firearms. The department also distributes gunlocks to ensure that guns are safely stored. Contact Officer Laura Brooks at 865-453-7310 ext 3007
Child Safety Day - The SPD hosts a Child Safety Day each year. This free event includes Fingerprinting, Car Seat Safety, WHALE, Stranger Danger, Bike Safety, DUI Golf Cart and much more. The event is a way of providing safety information to parents and kids in a positive way. Contact Sergeant Rebecca Cowan at 865-453-7310 ext 3001 SEVIERVILLE, TN 13 Government Continued
SENIOR PROGRAMS Senior Outreach Sevier (S.O.S.) - S.O.S. is a program developed Homeland Security and Disaster Preparedness - Our modern through a partnership between the SPD and the Fort Sanders world has presented us with new and troubling challenges. The Sevier Senior Center. The program uses volunteers to evaluate SPD is an active partner with the Sevier County and State of senior’s individual needs and connect them with resource options. Tennessee Emergency Management Agencies. An officer can be Volunteers will go out in two-person groups to visit seniors scheduled to give an informative presentation to your organization. in the area. They are trained to do home security checks and Contact Sergeant Ken Garner at 865-453-7310 ext 3371. can also deliver library books, food or other items as needed to increase the quality of life for seniors in our area. Volunteers must successfully complete a background check and a ten-week Sevier County Sheriff’s Department training program. Contact Sergeant Rebecca Cowan at 865-453- 106 W. Bruce St. 7310 ext 3001. Sevierville, Tennessee 37862
MEDRAY (Emergency Medical Relay System) - The MEDRAY Telephone: 865.453.4668 Program provides emergency caregivers with essential Administrative 865.774.3951 information in the event the patient is incapacitated. Specific, accurate and complete health information is important in an Detective 865.428.7544 emergency. MEDRAY packets are completed by enrollees and a Dispatch 865.428.0225 small sticker is placed on their door to alert caregivers. Contact Sergeant Rebecca Cowan at 865-453-7310 ext 3001. Jail Administration 865.453.0212
Tel-A Tend - The Tel-A-Tend program is a computerized Medical 865.774.3619 monitoring system that provides daily monitoring via telephone, TIPS Line: 865.453.0312 gives reminders to take medicine and raises an alarm if the person called does not answer or respond properly. Contact Sergeant Rebecca Cowan at 865-453-7310 ext 3001
OTHER PROGRAMS Citizen’s Police Academy - The Citizen’s Police Academy provides the opportunity for citizens to learn basic police skills in a safe, organized and structured environment. Curriculum for the program consists of 30 hours of classroom, practical and field training. Contact Captain Terry Bryan at 865-453-7310 ext 3107
Neighborhood Watch - The SPD participates in the nation- wide Neighborhood Watch Program. Once established, a Neighborhood Watch helps every citizen take an active roll in the safety of his or her community. Contact Officer Matt Ayers at 865-453-7310 ext 3011.
RAD - (Rape Aggression Defense) The RAD Program is designed to teach women self-defense options. Certified RAD instructors teach this twelve-hour class over three evenings. Contact Sergeant Rebecca Cowan at 865-453-7310 ext 3001.
Domestic Violence Prevention - The SPD is dedicated to preventing Domestic Violence. An Officer conducts follow-up investigations and victim outreach on all reports of Domestic Violence. Contact Sergeant Rebecca Cowan at 865-453-7310 ext 3001.
Shoplifting & Robbery Prevention Classes - Taught by request, these classes cover applicable law, shoplifting methods, prevention techniques, crime reporting and prosecution. Contact Officer Matt Ayers at 865-453-7310 ext 3011.
14 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Sevier County Fire Departments FIRE DEPARTMENTS Sevierville Fire Department / Sevier County Fire The following fire departments are located in Sevier County.
Department Catons Chapel Richardson Cove Volunteer Fire Department 3109 Pittman Center Rd 122 Prince Street Sevierville, TN 37876 Non-Emergency 865-428-1177 Sevierville, TN 37862 865-453-9276 English Mt. Volunteer Fire Dept. 1564 Wilhite Creek Rd Sevierville, TN 37876 Non-Emergency 865-429-3729 With 33 full-time firemen on staff, the Sevierville Fire Gatlinburg Fire Department Department offers Class 4 fire protection to much of the 1230 E Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738 city. The department responds to fire, rescue, emergency Non-Emergency 865-436-5112 medical and hazardous materials incidents. Northview Volunteer Fire Department Po Box 4 Kodak, TN 37764 Non-Emergency 865-933-9564
Pigeon Forge Fire Department 225 Pine Mountain Road Pigeon Forge, TN 37868 Non-Emergency 865-429-7381
Pittman Center Community Volunteer Fire Department Po Box 652 Gatlinburg, TN 37876 Non-Emergency 865-436-9684
Sevierville Fire Department 122 Prince St Sevierville, TN 37862 Non-Emergency 865-453-9276
Seymour Volunteer Fire Department 101 Ford Hill Ln Seymour, TN 37865-0911 Non-Emergency 865-573-7475
Waldens Creek Volunteer Fire Department 2828 Goose Gap Rd Sevierville, TN 37876 Non-Emergency 865-429-8258
Wears Valley Volunteer Fire Department 3339 Mattox Cemetery Rd Sevierville, TN 37876 Non-Emergency 865-428-4232
SEVIERVILLE, TN 15 16 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Trolley The City of Sevierville currently offers two trolley routes (North Parkway Route and Courthouse Route), which originate at Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge and extend into Sevierville. The routes currently operate from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., seven days a week during season ( March - Dec.) Trolleys will be scheduled to operate at approximate intervals of 30 minutes. Heavy traffic and rider numbers may affect this schedule.
Each trolley stop location will be marked with a sign (including a black bear at the top and route map.) TherePost are post Office offices all around the Great Smoky Mountains area so that you can easily drop off mail, buy stamps or ship North Parkway Route stops: your packages to friends and loved ones. When moving to Wal Mart Sevierville / Sevier County you will need to check with the post Oak Tree Lodge office to make sure that your new address is correct and that Apple Barn & Cider Mill you will receive mail at your new house or apartment. McDonalds Tanger Five Oaks Factory Outlet Mall NASCAR SpeedPark POST OFFICE Business Hours Books-A-Million in Governor’s Crossing Mall SEVIERVILLE Monday-Friday BB&T Bank on Collier Drive in Governor’s Crossing Mall 711 Dolly Parton Parkway 9:00a.m. to 5:00p.m. Wyndham Resorts at the end of Governor’s Crossing Sevierville, TN 37862 Saturday Smoky Mountain Palace Theater Comfort Inn Apple Valley 800-ASK-USPS 9:00a.m. to 11:00a.m. Veteran’s Boulevard Business Hours POST OFFICE SEYMOUR Courthouse Route stops Monday-Friday 10615 Chapman Highway NORTHBOUND 8:30a.m. to 4:30p.m. Seymour, TN 37865 McDonald’s Saturday Tanger Five Oaks Factory Outlet Mall 9:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. 800-ASK-USPS NASCAR SpeedPark Wal-Mart POST OFFICE Business Hours Sleep Inn River Place Shopping Center-Belk, TJ MAXX, and Outback PIGEON FORGE Monday-Friday Steakhouse 3235 Rena Street 8:30a.m. to 4:30p.m. Sevier County Courthouse Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Saturday Hampton Inn 800-ASK-USPS 9:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. Buddy’s BBQ Echota Sevierville Events Center Business Hours POST OFFICE KODAK Comfort Inn Monday-Friday 2849 Winfield Dunn Parkway 8:30a.m. to 4:00p.m. Kodak, TN 37764 SOUTHBOUND Saturday 800-ASK-USPS Landmark Inn North 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. Staples Court House Business Hours POST OFFICE K-Mart Shopping Center Monday-Friday GATLINBURG Landmark Inn/Riverview Inn River Place Shopping Center-Belk, TJ MAXX, and Outback 1216 East Parkway 8:00a.m. to 4:30p.m. Saturday Steakhouse Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Weigels 8:00a.m. to 10:00a.m. 800-ASK-USPS Wal Mart Tanger Five Oaks Factory Outlet Mall NASCAR SpeedPark
The trolley fare is $0.50 per person
SEVIERVILLE, TN 17 Churches
When you are in the middle of the Bible belt there are always places to worship. Sevier County has several different denominations depending on what house of worship you prefer. Assemblies of God, Baptist, Free-Will Baptist, Independent Baptist, Missionary Baptist, Southern Baptist, Catholic, Charismatic, Christian, Christian- Independent, Church of God, Church of God of Prophecy, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Episcopal, Full Gospel, Independent, Jehovah’s Witness, Lutheran, Lutheran-Missouri Synod, Metaphysical, Methodist, United Methodist, Nazarene, Non-Denominational, Pentecostal Church of God, Presbyterian, Presbyterian-PCA, Seventh- Day Adventist, and Pentecostal. Please check the local telephone book to get the telephone number of your favorite place to worship.
18 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Library LOCATIONS Sevier County Main Library Open Monday - Saturday Monday & Thursday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, & Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 865-453-3532
Sevier County Genealogy & History Center Sevier County Public Library Kodak Branch Open Monday - Saturday Open Monday - Saturday Monday & Thursday Monday & Thursday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, & Friday Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. 865-908-7988 CHILDREN’S WEEKLY PRESCHOOL STORY TIME & Sevier County Public Library Seymour Branch LAP-SIT PROGRAMS Open Monday - Saturday Monday & Thursday Birth - Age 5 10:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, & Friday Main Library Weekly 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Preschool Story Time Saturday Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Preschool Lap-Sit Story Time Program 865-573-0728 Thursday at 10:30 a.m.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 19 Seymour Branch magazines, music CDs, videos and DVDs. Preschool Story Time Free computer/wireless Internet access at all four Monday at 11:00 a.m. locations. Public Meeting Rooms Kodak Branch B&W and color prints/copies at all branches Preschool Story Time Friday at 11:00 a.m. Fax and scan to email services Lap-Sit Story Time Program Online Card Catalog (remotely accessible) with a content Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. enrichment feature creating an interface similar to Amazon.com. With an SCPLS card, pin number and the SUMMER READING PROGRAM Internet, patrons can review and reserve items to their account. Birth - Age 18 - June thru August The SCPLS Business Directory - any business in Sevier Scheduled on same day as Preschool Story Time Programs County can have a free listing on this remotely accessible at each branch business database - forms are available at any of the ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS & OUTREACH SCPLS branches. R.E.A.D.s (Regional EBook and Audiobook Download Dolly’s Imagination Library - Children between the ages System) With a SCPLS card, access to the Internet and of birth and five years old may sign up to receive one free free software available online, patrons can download book delivered to their home each month courtesy of audio and eBooks to iPods, disks or personal computers. Dolly’s Imagination Library program. Parents may sign up The downloaded audio and eBooks disappear from your their children online at www.dollysimaginationlibrary.com or device after 14 days-all free of charge. by calling The Dollywood Foundation at (865) 428-9606.
Fireside Book Club - Main Branch Meeting held monthly (2nd Friday at 10:00 a.m.) - at the Fort Sanders Sevier County Senior Center
Inspirational Reading Club - Seymour Branch Meetings held monthly (3rd Wednesday at 1:00 p.m.)
Literary Classics Book Club - Kodak Branch Meetings held monthly (Last Friday at 6:00 p.m.)
Monthly outreach programs are presented to day care centers, Head Start Programs and Public Schools
Book-into-Movie Programs held at each branch.
Beginning Genealogy Classes
Basic & Intermediate Computer Classes
For more information about Library programs and schedules call 865-453-3532.
Services provided: A circulating collection of 90,000+ print and non-print materials including books, audio books, newspapers,
20 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Sevierville Civic Center 200 Gary Wade Blvd Sevierville, TN 37862 865-453-5441 Colleen Brackins, Sevierville Civic Center Supervisor [email protected]
This multi-purpose rental facility was built to support the special interests of our citizens and visitors. The award winning Civic Center houses 3 meeting rooms, a stage with quality lighting and sound, a dressing area, a loading dock, a food preparation area and plenty of free parking. The Civic Center is a great place to host receptions, company conferences, seminars, plays, concerts, and much more.
• Seminars • Business Meetings • Banquets • Class Reunions • Weddings • Trade Shows • Receptions • Job Fairs
SEVIERVILLE, TN 21 Parks & Recreation
SEVIERVILLE DEPARTMENT OF PARKS & RECREATION The City of Sevierville Department of Parks & Recreation was established in 1974 and has the distinction of having one of the best Parks and Recreation Departments in the State of Tennessee. Winners of numerous awards, the Parks and Recreation staff implements programs and services for everyone from youngsters to the elderly. The department manages the Sevierville Community Center, the Sevierville Civic Center and numerous city parks. The department has designed dozens of camps, clinics, and programs to satisfy almost any recreational desire. The department is also in charge of the city’s Memorial River Trail Greenway program, the Urban Forestry/Tree City USA program, landscaping of the city facilities and parks as well as other areas throughout the city and maintaining the city’s Winterfest lights.
COMMUNITY CENTER Location: Spares & Strikes Café featuring a variety of food 200 Gary Wade Blvd., Sevierville, TN 37862 Athletic Leagues - volleyball, 3-on-3 basketball and softball * Community Center Fees Listed on Page 24 Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; SEVIERVILLE CITY PARK Sunday 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. (Closed on Sundays June, July, and Aug.) Location: 1005 Park Rd., Sevierville, TN 37862 Contact Information: 865-453-5441 / 865-428-2560 (fax) Programs / Activities Offered: • 2 Picnic Shelters - Capacity of 50 people; grills provided, no Programs / Activities Offered: electricity or water (advanced scheduling required) • Gymnasium, Racquetball Courts, Meeting Rooms, Lock-ins for • ½ mile walking trail around perimeter of park groups • Lighted tennis courts & basketball court • 0.6 mile walking trail around perimeter of facilities • 3 little league fields, 1 junior league field & 2 softball fields • Picnic Shelter - Capacity of 50 people; grills provided, no • Concession area (open during games only) electricity or water (advanced scheduling required) • Mt. Ton of Fun-playground • Playground & outdoor basketball court • Picnic tables • Fitness Center with a variety of equipment including tread mills, • Access to the Memorial Greenway Trail elliptical machines, bikes and weights fitness assessments, • Family Aquatics Center - renovated for 2008 self-directed fitness program and aerobic weight training 25-meter pool, splash pad, 2 slides with plunge pool aerobic classes including step, step & strike, body design , kick Concession area boxing and many more Renovated locker rooms and restrooms • Indoor Pool - 25-meter, six-lane pool with times for lap swim, Open late May-mid August open swim and exercise. Available for groups & birthday Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., parties (advanced scheduling required) Saturday 10 a.m. - 6.p.m. & Sunday 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. Water exercise classes - deep and shallow Contact phone number: 865-453-5441 Swim lessons - follow approved Red Cross curriculum • Kids Unlimited Programs - for ages 6-12 with advanced SEVIERVILLE CIVIC CENTER registration Location: Active Afternoons (after school program) 200 Gary Wade Blvd., Sevierville, TN 37862 Flurry of Fun (Christmas Break camp) Spring Extreme (Spring Break camp) Hours of Operation: Summer Adventure (Summer Break camp) Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Weekends and after hours based Other seasonal programs - Kids Dog Show & Santa’s Calling on events • Bowling Center - Open Monday-Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. (closed on Sundays in June, July & August) Contact Information: Regular & COSMIC bowling 865-453-5441, ext. 3553 / 865-428-2560 (fax) State-of-the-art equipment [email protected] / www.seviervilletn.org Special pricing for school aged children after school Available for groups & birthday parties (advanced scheduling Programs/Activities Offered: required) • Meeting space Leagues offered LeConte Auditorium (2900 sq. ft.) - Capacity: 350 max. theater-
22 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 style, 200-300 banquet-style, 150 classroom-style Council Hall (1120 sq. ft.) - Capacity: 110 theater-style, 50-75 banquet-style, 50 classroom-style Upper Conference Room (110 sq. ft.) - Capacity: up to 10 at conference table • Stage with quality lighting & sound, dressing area, loading dock, kitchen/food preparation area, plenty of free parking Various equipment rentals needed for events including dance floor, LCD projector, DVD player, TV, flip charts, easels and more. Contacts for caterers, DJs, photographers, musicians, florists, etc. Various community events held annually (Indoor Yard Sale, 4th of July Air Force Band concert, Winterfest Kick- off, etc.) Family Aquatics Center
OTHER PARKS & FACILITIES The Sevierville Department of Parks and Recreation is NORTHVIEW OPTIMIST PARK proud to announce the opening of the Family Aquatics Located at 319 W. Dumplin Valley Rd., Kodak, TN 37764 Picnic Shelter - Capacity of: 50 people; grill provided, no Center - our brand new aquatics facility! electricity or water (advanced scheduling required) Restrooms Conveniently located at the Sevierville City Park, the Playground Family Aquatics Center boasts the latest and greatest Soccer Fields Concession area in water fun. A fully-renovated 25-meter outdoor pool 0.3 mile walking trail around perimeter of park awaits your family along with 2 brand-new slides with Within walking distance to the Sevier County Public Library’s Kodak branch a plunge pool and a splash pad to entertain kids of all ages! MCMAHAN ADDITION PARK Located on the corner of McMahan St. & Railroad St. in Sevierville The Family Aquatics Center is a great place for your Picnic Shelter & picnic tables; grill provided (advanced scheduling family to spend a few hours or all day during those required) Playground hot summer months. Complete with a concession Basketball court area full of yummy snacks and treats, there’s no need J.B. WATERS PARK (LOVE ADDITION PARK) to pack a lunch! And with all the other amenities Located on Sunnyside Ave. in Love Addition in Sevierville Picnic Shelter at the Sevierville City Park - tennis, basketball, Playground playground, walking trail and picnic shelters, to name Basketball court Baseball Field a few - you’ll find it the best place to spend those long days of summer vacation! MEMORIAL GREENWAY Begins at Sevierville City Park For more information on the Sevierville Family The 1.8 mile Memorial Greenway in Sevierville is a paved trail that Aquatics Center or for group reservations, please call runs along the Little Pigeon River’s edge from the Sevierville City Park to the Chapman Hwy. Bridge. 865-453-5441. Landscaped and beautifully maintained Benches Gazebo located mid-way at “Paine Park” Various wildlife can be seen
SEVIERVILLE, TN 23 PARKS & RECREATIONContinued
SEVIERVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER Open bowl for all league bowlers $2.00 anytime Program Fees 2007-2008 Employee open bowling $1.50 anytime Shoe rental $2.00 for public and $1.00 for employees Fitness Center: Cardio equipment and weights Birthday Parties $8.00 for 1 ½ hours of bowling per person Child/senior Adult Cosmic bowing $9.95 per person on Friday & Saturday Daily* $1.75 $2.25 nights from 8 - 10 p.m. League bowling daytime rate $7.05; nighttime $7.80 4 Months $25.00 $30.00 Lane rental daytime $12 per hour nighttime $15 per hour Year $45.00 $55.00 Bowling Center retail is $175 per hour regular bowling & $225 per hour for cosmic *An additional $3.00 fee is required on first visit for Locker rental is $30.00 per year membership card. School groups $5 per child
Aerobics: Workout with certified instructors Senior Adults SEVIERVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER Daily $3.00 $3.25 Facility Fees 12 class pass $25.00 $30.00 Meeting Room #1: 660 square feet All passes must be used within 8 weeks. Expiration dates Capacity: 85 theater-style, 40 banquet-style, 40 classroom-style noted on pass. Hourly Rate: $12.00 per hour
Pool: 25 meter, 6 lane indoor pool Meeting Room #3: 288 square feet Child/Senior Adult Capacity: 35 theater-style, 20 Daily $2.00 $2.50 banquet-style, 20 classroom-style 4 Months $35.00 $45.00 Hourly Rate: $6.00 per hour Year $70.00 $90.00 Booklet/25 visits $25.00 $35.00 Gymnasium: 7200 square feet full; Spectator $1.25 $1.25 3600 square feet 1/2 Group $1.25 $1.85 Capacity: 700 – 800 theater style, 500 Water Exercise* $0.60 $0.60 banquet-style, 500 classroom style Swim Lessons** $3.50 $3.50 Hourly Rate: $25.00 per hour 1/2; $40.00 per hour full Picnic Shelters: 5 picnic shelters available in city parks *Water Exercise fee is plus pool admission. Capacity: 50 people; grills provided, no electricity **Swim lessons are as scheduled and fee is per lesson. and/or water Hourly Rate: $7.00 per hour for first 3 hours; $3.00 per Racquetball: 2 air conditioned courts available. hour for additional hours Child/Senior Adult Prime Time $3.00 $4.50 Group Rentals: Entire facility “Lock-Ins”; minimum of 3 hours Non-Prime Time $3.00 $3.00 Capacity: 125 Booklet /12 tickets $40.00 $40.00 Rate: $350.00 and up Racquetballs(can) $4.00 $4.00 Wallyball $8.50 $8.50
Equipment: Basketballs, volleyballs Child/Senior Adult Yearly $3.00 $3.00
Bowling Center: 10 Lanes Child/Senior Adult Open Play before 5pm $2.35 $2.65 Open Play after 5pm $2.75 $2.95
24 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 DISTANCE IN MILES TO MAJOR U.S. CITIES
Atlanta, GA 223 Cincinnati, OH 293 Chattanooga, TN 127 Knoxville, TN 26 Huntsville, AL 233 Lexington, KY 215 Chicago, IL 569 Asheville, NC 98 Indianapolis, IN 382 Tampa, FL 697 Birmingham, AL 284 Louisville, KY 273 Myrtle Beach, SC 383 Savannah, GA 392
SEVIERVILLE, TN 25 County &GENERAL City NUMBERS Services & WEBSITES
EMERGENCY - 911 Sevier County Sevier County Public Library Public Works Agriculture Extension Office 865-453-3532 Bryon Fortner, Director Knoxville Better Business 865-453-3695 www.sevierlibrary.org 865-429-4567 Bureau http://sevier.tennessee.edu/ Schools 865-692-1600 or Water 865-453-4671 865-522-9090 Ambulance Service Steve Flynn, Director www.sevier.org 865-453-5522 www.knoxville.bbb.org 865-453-3248 www.seviercountytn.org Solid Waste Consumer Affairs Legislators 865-428-0042 State Sen. 865-741-4737 Attorney General Raymond Finney 800-342-8385 865-429-7021 www.seviercountytn.org City of Sevierville 302 War Memorial Building www.state.tn.us/consumer City Hall-Administration Nashville, TN 37243 Chancery Court Steve Hendrix, 800-449-TENN, ext1-2427 Humane Society of Interim City Administrator 865-453-3268 sen.raymond.finney@ Sevier County 865-453-5504 www.seviercountytn.org legislature.state.tn.us Animal Shelter Code Enforcement 865-453-7000 Circuit Court Clerk State Rep. Joe McCord Butch Stott, Director www.petfinder.com/shelters/ 865-453-5536 207 War Memorial Building 865-453-5504 seviercounty www.seviercountytn.org Nashville, TN 37243 humanesociety.html 800-449-8366, ext 1-5481 Eagle’s Landing Golf Club County Clerk rep.joe.mccord@legislature. Call Before You Dig Faye Randolph, Director state.tn.us Marriage License 865-429-4223 800-351-1111 Motor Vehicle State Rep. Hunting & Fishing License Engineering Addressing & Mapping Richard Montgomery 865-453-5502 Jerry Hickman, City Engineer 207 War Memorial Building 865-428-0310 www.seviercountytn.org 865-453-5504 Nashville, TN 37243 800-449-8366, ext 1-5981 Fort Sander Sevier Medical Election Commission Finance Department rep.richard.montgomery@ Center Emergency Room 865-453-6985 Lynn McClurg, City Recorder legislature.state.tn.us 865-429-6100 www.seviercounty 865-453-5504 www.fssevier.com election.com Fire Department Employment Office Health Department Mike Rawlings, Fire Chief 865-429-7001 865-453-1032 865-453-9276 www.seviercountytn.org Great Smoky Mountains Information Services National Park Highway Department Jim Deanda, Director 865-436-5615 865-453-3452 865-453-5504 www.seviercountytn.org www.nps.gov/grsm Mayor’s Office Property Assessor Bryan Atchley, Mayor Sevier County Electric 865-453-3242 865-453-8740 System www.seviercountytn.org 865-453-2887 Parks & Recreation www.electric.seviervilletn.org Rescue Squad Civic Center & Non-Emergency Community Center Sevier County Utility District 865-453-4809 Bob Parker, Director www.scudgas.org www.seviercountytn.org 865-453-5441
Social Services Help Rescue Squad Planning & Development 211 Emergency Jim Bryant, Director www.211.org 865-453-5312 865-453-5504 United Way Business Line Sevier County Mayor Police Department 865-453-4261 865-453-6136 Don Myers, Police Chief www.uwosc.org www.seviercountytn.org 865-453-5506
26 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Road Rules Since May of 2007, there have been new roads opened that have helped move traffic around Sevierville better than ever. These are Sevierville’s “New Roads to the Smokies” a series of road infrastructure improvements including Veteran’s Boulevard, SR 448 and an additional lane of traffic inbound and outbound on the north portion of SR 66. The $31 million dollar expansions opened to date have provided smoother improvements is planned over the is available from the Sevierville traffic flow throughout the city next five years for Sevierville. Chamber of Commerce, Pigeon with less stopping along the way. Another important thing to note is Forge Department of Tourism or An additional $81 million in road the way Sevierville’s traffic lights Gatlinburg Department of Tourism, are numbered. Our traffic lights are will provide you a birds-eye-view of numbered 13.2, 14.7, etc. to denote the roads and help you plan your the distance from that particular trip. At only $2 each, get one for point to the Great Smoky Mountains each of your cars. Trust us, you’ll be National Park entrance. glad you did.
If you have just moved to Sevierville or are considering relocating here, you are probably planning on exploring the county. If you are, you’ll learn much more about how our roads work by studying an ? Did you know that area map. While many of our back Sevierville and the Great roads seem as though they will Smoky Mountains are within a day’s drive of wind you far away from the main over half the nation’s parts of town, the reality is that population? most connect conveniently with Annually, over 13,000,000 Sevierville’s main traffic arteries. A people visit Sevier County. detailed county wide map, which
SEVIERVILLE, TN 27 Education
REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS Age of Child Number of Doses Required How to enroll your child in School 2-3 months 1 DTP/DtaP/DT,1 Polio, STEP 1 1Hib Determine the Child’s Eligibility - All children, including 4-5 months 2 DTP/DtaP/DT,2 Polio, those who will be age 5 by September 30, and those who 2 Hib have not yet reached age 21 on the first day of school and 6-11 months 3DTP/DtaP/DT,2 Polio, who are living in Sevier County are eligible for enrollment. 3 Hib Each child seeking to enroll in the school system must be a 12-15 months 4 Hib, and 1 MMR given on resident of Sevier County. or after the first birthday 12-18 months 4DTP/DtaP/DT,3 Polio, and STEP 2 1 Varicella Identify and Contact the School - Registration takes place 4-6 years 4 or more DTP/DtaP/DT, at each individual school. Parents are asked to contact 4 Polio, 4 Hib, 1 Varicella, the school office to make an appointment for registration. and 2 MMR given on or School office hours are from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. If you are after the first birthday unsure about which school your child should attend based on the school bus routes, please call the School Bus Garage at 865-453-3568.
STEP 3 Gather the necessary documents - Parents need to provide the following documents when enrolling their children in Sevier County Schools for the first time: Copy of the child’s certified birth certificate Tennessee School Immunization Record Copy of the child’s social security card (optional) Proof of a health physical Proof of residency which can be in the following forms: Sevier County Electric System or utility district bill Mortgage or property deed Apartment or home lease (legally notarized rental agreements) Any other documentation that will objectively and unequivocally establish that the parent with legal custody or legal guardian lives in the county full time (current paycheck stub with local address, IRS Forms, DHS benefit documentation, alimony and child support documentation, bank account statements, insurance documents) Certified copy of filed petition for legal guardianship 28 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 The Sevier County School District comprises approximately 592.29 square miles. Student population- School Listing 14,441 as of November 2007. SEVIER COUNTY SCHOOLS
Population by Ethnicity: SCHOOLS K-8 Sevierville Primary (K-2) African American - 182 Boyd’s Creek Elementary Enrollment - 737 Asian/Pacific Islander - 140 Enrollment - 559 1146 Blanton Drive Hispanic - 551 1729 Indian Warpath Drive Sevierville, TN 37862 Native American - 46 Sevierville, TN 37876 865-453-2824 Caucasian - 13,522 865-774-8285 www.sps.sevier.org www.bc.sevier.org Student Accomplishment Seymour Primary (K-2) *2006-2007 Catons Chapel Elementary Enrollment - 670 Enrollment - 417 National Merit Finalists - 6 717 Boyds Creek Road Advanced Placement Courses - 3 3135 Catons Chapel Road Sevierville, TN 37876 Seymour, TN 37865 Scholarship Recipients - 523 865-577-5970 Scholarships Awarded - $12.1 million 865-453-2132 www.cc.sevier.org www.syp.sevier.org
ACT COMPOSITE SCORES Jones Cove Elementary SCHOOLS INTERMEDIATE District - 20.8 Enrollment - 192 State - 20.6 4554 Jones Cove Road Sevierville Intermediate (3-5) Cosby, TN 37722 Enrollment - 730 GRADUATION 865-453-9325 416 High Street *2006-2007 www.jc.sevier.org Sevierville, TN 37862 Graduates 800 865-428-8925 Graduation rate 92% New Center Elementary www.sis.sevier.org Enrollment - 888 NUTRITION 2701 Old Newport Highway Seymour Intermediate (3-5) Breakfasts served daily -3,062 Sevierville, TN 37876 Enrollment - 725 865-453-2123 Lunches served daily - 8,973 212 North Pitner Road www.nc.sevier.org Seymour, TN 37865 Breakfast Prices Pi Beta Phi Elementary 865-609-0030 K-8 $1.40 www.syi.sevier.org 9-12 $1.45 Enrollment - 537 125 Cherokee Orchard Road Gatlinburg, TN 37738 SCHOOLS MIDDLE Lunch Prices 865-436-5076 K-5 $1.70 www.pbp.sevier.org Northview Middle (5-8) 6-8 $1.80 Enrollment - 534 9-12 $1.95 Pittman Center Elementary 3295 Douglas Dam Road Enrollment - 208 Kodak, TN 37764 TRANSPORTATION 2851 Webb Creek Road 865-933-7985 Buses - 143 Sevierville, TN 37876 www.nvm.sevier.org Daily Bus Runs - 125 865-436-4515 Miles Traveled Daily - 5,096 www.pc.sevier.org
FINANCIAL INFORMATION Wearwood Elementary Operating Budget Enrollment - 225 $107,192,135.00 3150 Wearwood Drive Sevierville, TN 37862 Per-Pupil Expenditure 865-453-2252 $7,787.00 www.wearwood.org
Local Funding SCHOOLS - PRIMARY 54.7% Federal Funding Northview Elementary (K-4) 9.2% Enrollment - 665 State Funding 3293 Douglas Dam Road 36.1% Kodak, TN 37764 865-933-2415 ACCREDITATION www.nv.sevier.org *2006-2007 100% of Sevier County Schools Pigeon Forge Primary (K-4) are accredited by the Southern Enrollment - 624 Association of Colleges and Schools 1766 Waldens Creek 99.7% of core courses taught by Pigeon Forge, TN 37876 Highly Qualified Teachers 865-428-3016 www.pfp.sevier.org
SEVIERVILLE, TN 29 School Listing CONTINUED Pigeon Forge Middle (5-8) Enrollment - 583 300 Wears Valley Road Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 865-453-2401 www.pfmstigers.com
Sevierville Middle (5-8) Enrollment - 737 520 High Street Sevierville, TN 37862 865-453-0311 www.sms.sevier.org UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES Seymour Middle (6-8) Enrollment - 534 737 Boyds Creek Highway WALTERS STATE Seymour, TN 37865 Established in 1970, Walters State Community College is a comprehensive community 865-579-0730 college that serves around 5,900 credit students and over 4,000 students enrolled in job- www.seymourmiddle.org training courses. SCHOOLS HIGH The Sevier County Campus has 1,300 students and offers 70 programs of study. The Gatlinburg-Pittman High (9-12) campus signature programs are the Hotel and Restaurant Management Program, the Enrollment - 611 Professional Entertainment Program and the nationally-recognized Rel Maples Institute 150 Proffitt Road for Culinary Arts. The Sevier campus also offers the widely-acclaimed nursing program. Gatlinburg, TN 37738 865-436-5637 The college serves a primary ten-county service area, which consists of Claiborne, www.gp.sevier.org Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, Sevier and Union Pigeon Forge High (9-12) counties. Other campuses are located in Morristown, Greeneville and Tazewell. Enrollment - 776 414 Tiger Drive Walters State offers associate of arts, associate of science in teaching and general Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 transfer degree programs for students planning to transfer to senior institutions in pursuit 865-774-5790 of baccalaureate degrees. For those wishing to complete their educations at Walters www.pfhs.net State, the college has recently partnered with Lincoln Memorial University to offer four year degree programs as well. Sevier County High (9-12) Enrollment - 1704 1200 Dolly Parton Parkway Walters State is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Sevierville, TN 37862 and all academic programs eligible for accreditation are accredited. The college also 865-453-5525 offers a variety of special programs, including web-based and online classes. Other www.seviercountybears.com programs include College Express, which is specifically designed for the busy, working student; an advanced studies program for qualified high school students; remedial and Seymour High (9-12) developmental studies courses in writing, reading, spelling, math or algebra; preparation Enrollment - 1106 for GED testing; ACT preparation courses; senior adult college; continuing education 732 Boyds Creek Road programs for those employed full time; and community and economic development Seymour, TN 37865 865-577-7040 programs for special interests, business and industrial needs. www.seymourhs.com One area that Walters State is proud to be at the bottom of is the price. Fees at Walters SCHOOLS SPECIALTY State are extremely affordable and significantly less than two years at public or private four-year institutions. Walters State also offers a comprehensive program of financial aid Gary Hardin Alternative Learning Center through grants, scholarships, part-time employment and loans. 2540 Boyds Creek Road Sevierville, TN 37862 For more information about Walters State, visit the campus at 1720 Old Newport 865-453-8338 Highway or visit us on the web at www.ws.edu or call 865-774-5800. Parkway Academy 300 Cedar Street OTHER COLLEGES Sevierville, TN 37862 University of Tennessee at Knoxville 865-429-3908 865-974-1000 Pellissippi State www.utk.edu Technical Community College Trula Lawson Early Childhood Learning 865-694-6400 Center Carson-Newman College www.pstcc.edu 550 East Gate Road Sevierville, TN 37862 (Jefferson City) 865-475-9061 www.slc.sevier.org/tlc www.cn.edu Tennessee Technology Center 865-546-5567 Adult Education Johnson Bible College www.knoxville.tec.tn.us 300 Cedar Street 865-573-4517 Sevierville, TN 37862 www.jbc.edu 865-429-5243
30 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Tennessee Smokies Baseball
The Tennessee Smokies Baseball Team is the Class AA Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. The 2008 Season marks the team’s ninth year in their multi-use stadium, Smokies Park. It has 6,000 fixed seats, an outfield grass berm area for an additional 2,000 fans, plus 18 luxury suites, two patio areas, two picnic areas and a children’s playground area.
The Smokies play a 140-game full season schedule with 70 home they offer two different programs a cookie cake and having the crowd dates. The Smokies offer fun family for children to participate in, the sing “Happy Birthday”. Pre-game entertainment at an affordable price. Kids Club and the Summer Reading picnics for groups of 20 or more are Tickets range from $5-$10. Plus Program. The Kids Club is for fans also available and include group 12 and under. For only $15 it offers seating. Groups may also reserve free grass berm admission to every space on the Suite level where Sunday home game plus exciting suites for 20-40 people plus patios activities at each Kids Club Sunday. for groups of 25-75 are available. The members also receive a t-shirt, and prizes for attending games. For more information on all the The Summer Reading Program is Smokies have to offer please call for K-8th graders. It is designed 865-286-2300 or visit us at to keep them reading through the www.smokiesbaseball.com summer by awarding them with prizes. The program has 5 different levels. Participants may advance to the next level by reading 10 more books. At each level achieved the child receives a prize plus two tickets to a Smokies game.
The Smokies can also accommodate groups of any size. For children, the Smokies can throw a birthday party including 10 tickets,
SEVIERVILLE, TN 31 Health & WellnessHOSPITAL
Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center’s new 74 acre of service in a beautiful dining atmosphere and wireless campus will include a new three story Medical Center, access will be available for visitors in comfortable family the Thompson Cancer Survival Center for Outpatient rest areas. Treatment, the new Dolly Parton Center for Women’s Services and the Dr. Robert F. Thomas Multi-Specialty Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center’s new cancer center Professional Office Building. will house some of the highest levels of cancer diagnostics and treatments combined with nationally recognized care through the hospital’s affiliation with MD Anderson. These These state-of-the-art facilities will provide patients, additions will provide convenient access to cancer care in families and visitors excellent care and spectacular views our community. This new medical complex will help provide of the Great Smoky Mountains. Part of the new campus the technology to support a loyal and growing medical staff will include an emergency department large enough to and attract new physicians who want to live and work in accommodate 42,000 patients a year; triple the size of this beautiful community. the current facility. A new Intensive Care Unit and Step- Down unit for patients no longer requiring intensive care Fort Sanders Sevier’s vision is to create a great place for services but who continue to need close observation will people to work, physicians to practice and patients to also be included in the new hospital complex as will the receive excellent care. Dolly Parton Family Birthing Unit, with a special C-Section suite, a new surgery department, enhanced technology and efficiently designed facilities such as a new imaging department and laboratory. In addition, the dietary services will be expanded to offer more options and extended hours 32 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Business TOURISM& Industry IN SEVIERVILLE
Sevierville prides itself on a wide variety of business and employment opportunities for our residents, from industry to education. But it is tourism that provides the backbone for Sevierville and Sevier County’s growing economies. With more than 13,000,000 annual overnight visitors, Sevier County generates nearly $1.5 billion in domestic travel expenditures, pays out $353 million in payroll and employs more than 18,400 people each year. That’s why tourism is big business.
But tourism is more than an economic driver for our county, it is also a large part of what makes this such a special place to live. Having America’s most visited national park in our backyard provides ample opportunities to spend time in nature while the theme parks and attractions all around us also provide nice diversions and the shopping is second to none.
Sevierville’s city leadership realizes the value of tourism for our residents and works to bring new development to the area which will enhance the quality of life for everyone. Because Sevierville is a city of approximately 17,500 residents and annually supports more than 700 times that many visitors, we must maintain a much larger infrastructure system than the norm for a city our size. Out city’s needs included new roads and new water and sewer lines. Sevierville sought a way to meet those needs and provide positive economic impact. They found the answer in an events center.
In 2003, Sevierville began the process of building an events center with the help of Tennessee’s Convention Center Financing Act. Through this piece of legislation, Sevierville was able to issue bonds and raise money for the construction of our new 240,000 square foot Sevierville Events Center as well as the construction of new roads and infrastructure.
In fact, less than 35 cents of every dollar went towards building the events center with the rest going to infrastructure improvements. Those bonds are being paid back with tax revenue collected from new businesses located within the Central Business Improvement District-a corridor along SR 66 that expands into downtown Sevierville.
The Sevierville Events Center serves as a catalyst for economic development and has already spurred nearly a $1 billion investment by private developers in Sevierville, including entertainment and lifestyle centers filled with shopping, dining, lodging and entertainment. In addition, the Sevierville Events Center, which has been designed for trade shows and competitive arts events, is booked steadily for the next 17 years. Already Sevierville hotels have seen revenue increases in “off season” winter months, and the trend is expected to continue.
While Sevierville has its fair share of lodging properties, attractions and destination shopping, it has struggled to forge a clear identity with area visitors. Now, with new growth and expanded vacation opportunities, Sevierville is becoming an upscale mountain destination. With the foresight and planning of Sevierville’s leadership, our city will continue looking to the future. But regardless of Sevierville’s growth and change, we have always and will always maintain our hometown feel.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 33 Business & Industry Continued NEW INDUSTRIAL OPENINGS 2004-2007 COMPANY NAME NUMBER OF JOBS Mannon Specialty Foods 30 Advanced Rotomolding 15 Quality Solutions 20 Tennessee Hardwoods 8 Heritage Log Homes 85 Smoky Mountain Building Products Under construction
SEVIER COUNTY TOP EMPLOYERS COMPANY NAME PRODUCT EMPLOYEES Johnson Matthey Custom Catalyst 45 Emco Williams Precast Stone 20 Vulcan Corp Crushed Stone 23 Southern Casting Alum. & Brass Castings 35 MMI TruTech Heat Treating 36 Mountain Mold & Die Tool and Die 56 Ten-Tech, Inc Ham Radios - Heat Treating 100 Swaggerty Sausage Breakfast sausage & 75 meat products TRW Fuji Valve Engine Valves & Components 300 Blalock Lumber Company Asphalt & Ready Mix Concrete 250 Smoky Mountain Resorts Hotels, Motels & 300 Convention Center Ft. Sanders/Sevier Medical Hospital 388 Collier Foods Restaurants 700 Dollywood Amusement Park 1,800 Sevier County Schools County School System 2,237
34 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Eagle’s LandingGOLF CLUB
Eagle’s Landing Golf Club was opened by the City of The 18-hole championship style Sevierville in June 1994. This 18-hole Championship course at Eagle’s Landing will remain Course has quickly become recognized as one of the top open throughout the construction of the 18 hole resort public courses in the state, receiving a 4-star rating by style course. Golf Digest, and was nominated for Golf Digest’s “Best Public Course” award in 1995. Eagle’s Landing Golf Club has challenged some of the best golfers the state has to offer by hosting such Eagle’s Landing Golf Club is currently under construction events as: to add an additional 18-hole Resort Course set to open in late 2009. With holes on islands in the French Broad Knoxville Chapter PGA Championship River, hazards throughout the course and gorgeous views Tennessee State Open Qualifying of the Great Smoky Mountains, this new 18-hole course Tennessee Intercollegiate Championship will be a “must play” for golfers. A brand new Club Mid-South Collegiate Championship House is also set to open in 2009 and will offer golfers Home site for the Tennessee PGA’s Calloway Open Tennessee PGA Championship a quicker way to check in and get on the course for a round or two.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 35
Great Smoky Mountains Nationalby Nancy Park Gray
Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, bisecting the park in an unbroken chain that rises more than 5,000 feet for over 36 miles. The largest federally protected upland reserve east of the Mississippi River, the park encompasses over 800 square miles in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Elevations in the park range from 875 to 6,643 feet. This range in altitude mimics the latitudinal changes experienced by driving north or south across the eastern United States, say from Georgia to Maine. Plants and animals common in the southern United States thrive in the lowlands of the Smokies while species common in the northern states find suitable President Franklin D. Roosevelt leads dedication ceremonies for habitats at the higher elevations. Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1940.
The Smoky Mountains are among the oldest in the world, formed perhaps 200 - 300 million years ago. They are unique in their northeast to southwest orientation, which allowed species to migrate along their slopes during climatic changes such as the last ice age, 10,000 years ago. In fact, the glaciers of the last ice age affected the Smoky Mountains without invading them. During that time, glaciers scoured much of North America but did not quite reach as far south as the Smokies. Consequently, these mountains became a refuge for many species of plants and animals that were disrupted from their northern homes. The Smokies have been relatively undisturbed by glaciers or ocean inundation for over a million years, allowing species eons to diversify. Almost 95 percent of the park is forested, and about 25 percent of that area is old-growth forest – one of the largest blocks of deciduous, temperate, old-growth forest remaining in North America.
In the Smokies, the average annual rainfall varies from approximately 55 inches in the valleys to over 85 inches on some peaks - more than anywhere else in the country except the Pacific Northwest. During wet years, over eight feet of rain falls in the high country. The relative humidity in the park during the growing season is about twice that of the Rocky Mountain region.
All these conditions coming together - changes in altitude, moisture, temperature, and northeast-southwest orientation - create a range of ecosystems that support a tremendous diversity of life. This biological diversity is the hallmark of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. No other area of equal size in a temperate climate can match the park’s amazing diversity of plants, animals, and invertebrates. Over 12,000 species have been documented in the park - from the big animals like bears, deer, and elk, down to microscopic organisms which are still being discovered. Scientists believe an additional 90,000 species may live here.
Some 100 species of native trees find homes in the Smokies, more than in any other North American national park. Over 1,600 additional flowering plant species have been identified in the park. The park is the center of diversity for lungless salamanders. There are at least 30 different species of salamanders, giving the Smokies the distinction of having the most diverse population anywhere in the world.
The park is also home to more than 200 species of birds, 66 types of mammals, 39 varieties of reptiles, and 43 species of amphibians. 2,115 miles of streams in the park protect one of the last wild trout habitats in the eastern United States, Southern Appalachian brook trout, as well as 50 other native fish species. Mollusks, millipedes, and mushrooms reach record diversity here. Approximately 1,600 black bears live in the park, which equals a population density of approximately two bears per square mile.
Culturally, the mountains have had a long human history spanning thousands of years - from the prehistoric Paleo Indians to early European settlement in the 1800s. The Park has an unequalled collection of historic structures, including large two-story dwellings, log buildings, churches, schoolhouses, barns and working grist mills - 78 historic structures in all, along with preserved scenes and landscapes characteristic of settler’s lives in the Smokies. In addition, the park contains over 200 cemeteries, from large fenced areas with hundreds of graves in known marked cemeteries to more remote locations with just a handful of graves or even just one.
The park is a Mecca for hikers, nature lovers, and sight-seers of all kinds. Hands-on exploration and recreational opportunities abound in the Smokies for visitors to discover the wonders of this park and to enjoy the scenic splendor. Whether you delight in the challenge of a strenuous hike to the crest of a mountain or prefer to sit quietly and watch the sun set, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the place of activity and relaxation. Auto touring, bicycling, fishing, hiking, picnicking, horseback riding, waterfalls, historic buildings, mountain streams, wildlife viewing, workshops and classes, family-friendly ranger-led programs and other educational experiences await visitors.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 37 Festivals & Events
Festivals and Events are a major part of life in Sevierville and Winterfest (Nov.-Feb.) is a Sevier County. Each year, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, visitor and local favorite, and Pittman Center celebrate well over 100 festivals or special with millions of twinkling lights lining the Parkway events, from large scale street festivals lasting multiple days to an throughout Sevierville, Easter bunny appearance at a local mall. Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Sevierville is Sevierville’s largest the first city to “flip the weekend event, Bloomin’ switch” on its lights during BBQ & Bluegrass, is held the annual Winterfest the third weekend in Kick-Off event. This family-friendly event is geared towards May each year and, like our local residents, but everyone is welcome to attend. Local many events in our area, dance troupes and vocal groups perform on stage while area businesses offer up free gifts and free food for festival attendees. requires no admission City services, including fire and police, offer fun community fee. This Tennessee outreach programs during the event and there’s always a special State BBQ Championship surprise at evening’s end - everything from snow falling gently to hosts over 50 cook teams from around the United States and the ground to the SWAT team arresting “The Grinch” for stealing offers event goers free bluegrass concerts, games for the kids Christmas - followed by an annual fireworks display as the and lots of delicious food. The Mountain Soul Vocal Competition, Winterfest lights blink on for the first time all season. honoring the songwriting of Dolly Parton, is also held during this festival. This unique vocal competition is the only one of its kind Sevierville’s Christmas that event organizers know of because it requires contestants to Parade is another area tradition, stretching back sing one of the 3,000+ songs written by Sevierville native Dolly nearly 50 years. Residents Parton in the style of his or her own choosing. This can mean and visitors alike line you’ll hear a rousing rock and roll rendition of “Bargain Store” or up early in downtown even a smooth jazz version of “Jolene.” But one song you won’t Sevierville to watch this hear is “I Will Always Love You.” After half the contestants in the fun parade, traditionally first Mountain Soul Vocal Competition (2005) sang the popular held on the first Saturday song, organizers “outlawed” it to force contestants to dig deeper of December. Maybe it’s into Dolly’s massive catalogue of songs. www.BloominBBQ.com the twinkle in Santa’s eye or the sweet taste of candy canes passed out by “Parade Elves”, but people who witness Sevierville’s Christmas Parade say it reminds them of a Harvest Fest (Sept.-Oct.) real hometown event-amply peppered with beauty queens, baton celebrates Appalachian twirlers, marching bands and classic cars. Maybe that’s because heritage and the harvest it truly is a hometown event, and one we’re proud to share with you. with several exciting events, many of which Springfest (March - June) Harvest Fest (September - October) focus on traditional arts Winterfest (November - February) and crafts, bluegrass music and storytelling. For more information about Sevierville events, visit us online at This is also the time www.VisitSevierville.com when the diverse Get Involved! deciduous forests of the Great Volunteering for special events is easy-and the help will be Smoky Mountains develop rich red and golden leaf hues and appreciated. Event organizers often need help with everything millions of visitors flock to see the natural beauty. Harvest Fest from parking cars to greeting festival attendees. For more only helps increase the visual interest as area businesses are information about volunteering for events in Sevierville, contact encouraged to decorate with pumpkins, hay bales, scarecrows the Sevierville Chamber of Commerce at (865) 453-6411. and more.
38 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Sevierville History
THEN & NOW streets. Hungry visitors will find cafés and restaurants along Founded in 1795, and incorporated in 1901, Sevierville (Severe the hometown streets. For those seeking information on the ville) is Sevier County’s business activity hub and county past, the Sevier County Heritage Museum is just a block from seat. Named for John Sevier, the first governor of Tennessee, the square in the old Sevierville Post Office and guides visitors Sevierville is also the oldest and largest of Sevier County’s through Sevier County’s past – from the Eastern Woodland four cities (Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Pittman Indians to Scotch-Irish mountain settlers and on. Center). Currently, area visitors may drive or hop aboard the Sevierville As the eighth oldest town in the state of Tennessee, Sevierville Fun Time Trolley (north route) to reach downtown Sevierville. is brimming with history and local iconic structures. One of Historic Downtown Sevierville is soon set to undergo the most recognizable buildings in all of Sevier County is renovations, including widening the sidewalks, placing utilities the courthouse. The fifth Sevier County Courthouse (the first underground and adding parking. All of these improvements four burned mysteriously), is the current one in operation. are intended to make the downtown area even more Designed by the McDonald brothers as an example of the pedestrian and visitor friendly. Beaux-Arts classical style and utilizing bricks manufactured by African-American mason and Sevierville resident, Isaac A Sevierville By Any Other Name… Dockery, the Sevier County Courthouse cost a grand total of Sevierville (Severe ville) is named for John Sevier, one of $21,041.93 when it was completed in 1896. The courthouse the leading figures in the history of Tennessee. Sevier was rises 130 feet above the surrounding city of Sevierville and a frontiersman, soldier, war hero and politician who served contains a traditional four-sided Seth Thomas clock set into under George Washington in the American Revolution and its elegant tower. Even after a remodeling in 1970 and an distinguished himself at the battle of King’s Mountain. expansion in the 1980s, the Sevier County Courthouse still maintains its graceful appearance in the heart of Sevierville. In 1874, he became the first governor of the State of Franklin, a new state that had been carved out of the land around The lawn of the Sevier County Courthouse is a historic spot as Watauga, an area now located on the border of Tennessee well, with many notable local political activities and traditional and North Carolina. Later, Franklin became part of North events taking place there. But the lawn is also a place of honor for Sevierville and Sevier County’s most notable citizens. Three monuments stand on the lawn honoring veterans and police. Perhaps the most recognizable monument is the statue of hometown girl, Dolly Parton. Her bronze statue, which was sculpted by local artist Jim Gray and unveiled by Ms. Parton herself on May 2, 1987, is a popular spot for photos. Dolly even proclaimed the dedication of the statue as her proudest moment in a recent CMT special.
But Sevierville’s downtown is not simply statues, monuments and historic buildings. Life and business are bustling there and many visitors stroll through the streets to visit the quaint galleries, shops and specialty stores lining the downtown
SEVIERVILLE, TN 39 Carolina and John Sevier was accused of treason for resisting Mountain Music the annexation. Sevierville is in the heart of the country that birthed what was once called Hillbilly music. But now, many authorities When the State of Tennessee was formed in 1796, Sevier consider the songs of the southern mountaineers to be became its first governor, serving from 1796 until 1801 and the only true folk music ever produced by the European again from 1803 until 1809. Sevier later served as a state immigrants to America and they hearken back to the British ballads of the 18th century pioneers. senator from 1809 until 1811 and was a member of the US
House of Representatives in 1811. English Musicologist Cecil Sharp said in Smoky Mountain
Country by North Callahan that he was tremendously taken Nicknamed “Nolichucky Jack” for his exploits along the with the [Southern Mountaineers] themselves, their strong Nolichucky River, Sevier died in Georgia during a boundary character, their individuality, the isolation and its affects upon negotiation with Creek Indians in 1815. them and their music. The mountain people were sheltered by rugged mountains from the rest of the world and by this very Evidence Of The Rural Life Abounds In The Architecture condition, he concluded, they had retained in all its purity the Many cantilever barns, dominant during the 19th and 20th most lyrical folk music in the world. century in Sevier County, are still standing. In the typical cantilever barn, the wings acted as an umbrella to the log Even today, music inspired by the Smoky Mountains is cribs below them. recognized the world over. The most prolific and well known musician to come from Sevierville is country music legend The Harrisburg Covered Bridge is another structure of and philanthropist Dolly Parton. One of twelve children born historical interest in Sevier County because it is one of in Locust Ridge, Tennessee, Dolly has remained faithful to her mountain roots, even as her international fame continued to only twelve remaining covered bridges in East and Middle grow. After opening her Dollywood theme park, which helps Tennessee. It is 83 feet long and sits on a limestone preserve mountain music and crafts while creating jobs for foundation. This bridge is a popular photo stop for many area residents, she also began the Dollywood Foundation, interested in history. which funds many charities in the region, and the Imagination Library which provides free books to kids in many parts of the A River Runs Through It US, Canada and the UK from birth until Kindergarten. While the Pigeon River provided essential transportation for agriculture and commerce, it was also the cause of many floods occurring off its banks. The earliest recorded flood was in 1875 when the river measured 19.5 feet. Floods as recently as 1963 have left Sevierville as a declared disaster area by the Small Business Administration. In 1966, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) began a flood protection program which was completed in 1967 in which work was done on the west prong of the Little Pigeon River thereby preventing further flooding. Since the completion of that project, there have been no further floods in Sevierville.
Electricity For All In 1942, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) relocated 525 families who lived near the banks of the French Broad River in northeastern Sevier County in order to build Douglas Dam. The $41.8 million dam flooded over 33,000 acres of farmland on the William Trotter farm and destroyed the old James Trotter House, but it brought electricity to East Tennessee and provided energy for the war effort, especially in Alcoa where sheet metal was produced for the war’s fighter planes. Although Douglas Dam was constructed primarily to produce electricity, it was also conceived as a flood control device and recreational area and it was instrumental in changing the economic fortune of Sevier County. Douglas Dam was designed by architect Roland A. Wank and was the largest construction project in Sevier County. Although its architecture contrasts sharply with the traditional rural architecture of Tennessee, this and 16 other dams designed by Wank are considered masterpieces of architecture and engineering.
40 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Retiring SEVIERVILLEto Sevierville / SMOKY MOUNTAINS
Tennessee provides the backdrop for the good life! Whatever your interests or hobbies, Tennessee is home to urban places and wide-open spaces, with lots of scenic room to roam. Tennessee’s lakes, rivers and parks provide the perfect setting for outdoor activities. The fine arts thrive alongside regional crafts and sports share the spotlight with great musical attractions. Move to Tennessee…enjoy the good life…where the quality of life is high and the cost of living low.
Since 1995 Tennessee has seen a 27% increase in out-of- staters moving here to retire. Among the 17 states in the South, Tennessee ranks sixth in importing retirees.
With golf courses, shopping, hiking, fishing, world-class attractions and the Great Smoky Mountains, Sevierville and Sevier County are great places to retire in Tennessee.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 41 Dolly Parton Sevierville is well known for many things. It is the hits. Dolly has 25 No. 1 country singles, 55 top 10 country shopping capital of East Tennessee, it borders the most hits, 8 top 40 pop hits, 26 gold and platinum record visited National Park in the United States (Great Smoky awards, 7 Grammy Awards (and 44 nominations), 11 CMA Mountains), it is home to many theaters, attractions and Awards, 2 Oscar Nominations (Best Song), 5 Golden Globe restaurants and it is quickly becoming known as a tourist nominations (3 for acting), an Emmy nomination and more destination in its own right. than 100 million records sold.
While Sevierville is known for all these things, it is also In 1986 Dolly wanted to do something for the folks in her known as the hometown of singer, songwriter and Tennessee Mountain home. Partnering with Herschend entertainer, Dolly Parton. Dolly grew up in nearby Locust Family Entertainment, Dolly opened her Dollywood family Ridge, the fourth of 12 siblings. Dolly knew at a young age theme park in nearby Pigeon Forge, TN. This 150-acre that she wanted to sing and entertain for a living. By the park has continued to grow and add new rides, shows, age of 6, she was singing live at WIVK radio station restaurants and festivals in the past 22 years. In 2001, in nearby Knoxville, Tennessee. Dolly opened Dollywood’s Splash Country to “splashing” She was also making weekly reviews. This 35-acre park is filled with slides, a lazy river appearances at Cas Walker’s and wavepool and is open May through September each Grocery Store, which still stands year. Dolly also opened her Dixie Stampede Dinner Show today and now houses Goodwill in 1988 in Pigeon Forge, with additional venues in Myrtle Industries on the Parkway in Beach, SC, and Branson, MO. This friendly rivalry between Sevierville. Dolly attended the North and South features 32 magnificent horses Sevier County High School along with ostriches, pigs, and a herd of authentic Texas where she played drums longhorns. Guests also are treated to a fabulous four- in the marching band. course feast. After graduation in 1964, Dolly packed In 1996, Dolly Parton launched an exciting new effort to up her hopes benefit the children of her home county in east Tennessee. and dreams Dolly wanted to foster a love of reading among her county’s and moved preschool children and their families. She wanted children to Nashville to to be excited about books and to feel the magic that books pursue a career can create. Moreover, she could insure that every child in the music would have books, regardless of their family’s income. With business. the introduction of Dolly’s Imagination Library, she mailed a brand new, age-appropriate book each month to every Today Dolly has child under the age of five in Sevier County. With the arrival written more than of every child’s first book, the classicThe Little Engine That 3,000 songs – many Could TM, every child could experience the joy of finding of them number one their very own book in their mailbox. By the time each
42 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 participating child entered kindergarten, he or she had a 60-volume library of books. The last book of the collection, Look Out Kindergarten, Here I Come, prepared them for school.
Needless to say, the program has been a success. So much so that many other communities clamored to provide the Imagination Library to their children. Dolly thought long and hard about it and decided to help develop a way for other communities to participate. With Penguin Group USA as the exclusive publisher for the Imagination Library, the program is now replicated in 700 communities in 43 states as well as Canada and England.
Dolly has also been a major supporter of the healthcare in Sevier County. She is the honorary chairperson of The Dr. Robert F. Thomas Foundation, named for the doctor who delivered Dolly and helped establish adequate healthcare facilities in Sevier County.
Appreciation for Dolly can be seen throughout Sevierville and Sevier County. Dolly Parton Parkway is a major thoroughfare in Sevierville and one of the most beloved statues in Sevierville is the statue of Dolly Parton on the courthouse lawn. The statue, sculpted by local artist Jim Gray and unveiled by Dolly herself on May 2, 1987, features a young Dolly barefoot, and strumming a guitar. Dolly proclaimed the dedication of the statue as her proudest moment in a recent CMT Special. In April of each year, nearby Pigeon Forge holds the Annual Homecoming Parade in Dolly’s honor. In May of each year at the Annual Bloomin’ BBQ and Bluegrass Festival, contestants perform one of the 3,000 songs Dolly has written to pay tribute to our hometown legend.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 43 Moving Arrange to transfer school records. Obtain and fill out post office change-of- Checklist address cards. Make arrangements for storage if necessary.
Ask your doctor or health plan provider for referrals, and obtain all medical records.
Obtain packing materials and start packing items you won’t need until after you arrive at your new house or apartment.
Prepare auto registration for transfer (if moving from another state).
Notify any creditors of your move.
Transfer your bank accounts.
Defrost refrigerator and freezer, propping doors open.
Disconnect and prepare major appliances for move.
Set aside anything that will travel in your car so it will not be loaded on the truck.
Pack a box of items that will be needed first at the new house or apartment.
44 WWW.VISITSEVIERVILLE.COM 888-738-4378 Did You Know?
SEVIERVILLE IS HOME TO…
*Tennessee’s Official Repository and Archive for Aviation History and the Official Tennessee Aviation Hall of Fame - Tennessee Museum of Aviation
*The largest known wall of rare cave onyx - Forbidden Caverns
*The largest authentic outlet mall in Tennessee - Tanger Five Oaks Factory Outlet Center
*The scrapbook store with the largest inventory in the nation - Your Scrapbook Superstore
*Musical Superstar Dolly Parton - Dolly Parton Statue on the Courthouse Lawn
*Only vocal competition honoring the songwriting of Dolly Parton - Mountain Soul Vocal Competition - Held each May at the Bloomin’, Barbeque & Bluegrass Festival
HISTORICALLY SPEAKING…
*Aviation legend Edward C. Huffaker - whose research on soaring flight made the Wright brother’s flight possible - was born in Sevier County
*The Battle of Boyd’s Creek, fought in Sevierville, was the only official Revolutionary War battle fought in Tennessee.
*Sevierville (pronounced Severe-ville) is named for Tennessee’s first governor,John Sevier. Learn more about him at the Sevier County Heritage Museum.
DRIVING AROUND…
*Sevierville is only minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited National Park and the only one that is absolutely FREE to enter.
*Sevierville is perfect for family vacations via car…Sevierville is only a day’s drive away from over one-half the U.S. population.
SEVIERVILLE, TN 45