Tourism vital to Northeast Tennessee's Helene recovery

By KATE COIL

TT&C Assistant Editor

Officials in Northeast Tennessee say that continued visitation to the area will aid in recovery from Hurricane Helene. 

ECONOMIC IMPACT 

Hikers on the Appalachian Trail, campers in state parks, and kayakers and rafters in rivers like the Nolichucky and French Broad provide a key economic engine for the region. 

Amanda Delp, executive director of the Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce, noted that Erwin’s outdoor recreation industry took a major hit because of Helene. Two rafting outfitters, cabins, campgrounds, and riverside lodgings were damaged. 

“The Nolichucky River, one of our region’s premier outdoor attractions, suffered extensive damage,” Delp said. “Where the riverbank breached, severe destruction occurred, affecting river access points, surrounding infrastructure, and nearby businesses. Debris remains in portions of the river, creating hazardous conditions that have halted rafting operations for this season.” 

The flooding covered downtown Newport. When the waters receded, Newport Mayor Roland “Trey” Dykes mentioned the community faced new issues. 

“We’ve had a pretty robust rafting industry, but basically the storm created a lot of damage that rerouted part of the river,” Dykes said. “We also lost a bridge on the French Broad River that has created some issues. Interstate 40 was shut down for some time, rerouting traffic through downtown Newport, which created problems with semis and large vehicles.” 

Dykes stated that at least one rafting provider in Newport has had to halt business while it recovers. Delp added that rafting is not yet possible on the Nolichucky because the river changed course after the storm and there are still hazards in the water. Visitors can still take part in: 

• Hiking 

• Mountain biking 

• Fishing  

“Our goal is to ensure that visitors know that while some activities are temporarily unavailable, there are still plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy our beautiful region,” Delp said. The resilience of our tourism community is strong, and we are committed to rebuilding stronger than ever.” 

VOLUNTEER SPIRIT 

One bright spot has been the number of volunteers helping to restore outdoor amenities. 

Dykes mentioned that volunteer efforts have been essential for restoration, especially with federal cuts affecting the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and national forests in the area. 

“Volunteers have helped clear hiking trails in some areas. Cades Cove in the Smoky Mountains National Park had a little bit of damage,” he said. “Not much gets done around there that isn’t done by volunteers. The Tennessee Department of Forestry also had volunteers out to help replant trees and restore streamsides." 

Delp explained that efforts are underway to restore crucial infrastructure used by both locals and visitors. 

“One of the biggest challenges has been the collapse of the Chestoa River Bridge, a critical crossing for Appalachian Trail hikers passing through Erwin,” she said. “County officials have partnered with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and private rafting outfitters to establish a ferry system across the river. This ensures hikers can still traverse the trail without interruption. This collaboration highlights the strength and determination of our community to support both residents and visitors.” 

SALES TAX IMPACT 

Normally, a lot of sales tax revenue comes from restaurants and gas stations along I-40. With the interstate closed due to damage, traffic was rerouted through downtown Newport. 

Mayor Dykes reported a 13% decline in sales tax in the months following the storm. Even with more traffic through downtown Newport, motorists were not making stops locally. 

Much of downtown Newport was flooded, and the city’s wastewater facility was not operational after the storm. As a result, many restaurants and grocery stores were closed when traffic was rerouted. 

However, sales tax numbers recovered in January and February. There is hope for continued recovery, but local residents remain the priority. Dykes stated that one of the largest employers in the Newport area has not yet returned to operation. 

“We can’t accommodate visitors until we have helped the people here who have lost loved ones and homes,” he said. “If we take care of our folks, the rest will take care of itself.” 

While short-term dips are expected, Delp said Erwin also anticipates a sales tax rebound later in the year. 

“We expect some fluctuations in economic activity, especially in hotel stays, gas stations, and restaurants, as visitors navigate post-flood conditions,” she said. “However, Erwin’s strong tourism appeal and the unwavering support of our community are key factors in driving economic recovery. Many businesses report that while there was an initial slowdown, visitors are still coming, and we expect numbers to stabilize as recovery efforts progress.” 

Delp emphasized that helping Erwin residents and businesses recover aligns with tourism recovery goals. 

“These businesses were significantly impacted by the flood, but they are actively working to rebuild and adapt for the upcoming season,” she said. “While challenges remain, their resilience and commitment to the outdoor community are evident as they make repairs, adjust their offerings, and find ways to continue serving visitors.” 

OPEN FOR BUSINESS 

To speed up tourism recovery, state officials are working with local leaders and businesses to provide resources and innovative advertising strategies. 

“The state has been very helpful in that regard. Commissioner Eley has visited several times, working with storm-related recovery and helping brainstorm ways to promote tourism,” Dykes said. 

Delp stated that Erwin, the local chamber of commerce, and tourism businesses are working together to chart a way forward. 

“Our businesses are finding ways to adapt, and we are committed to supporting them as they rebuild stronger than ever,” she said. “Erwin is working alongside other regional tourism organizations to reinforce the message that Northeast Tennessee is open for visitors.” 

Social media and digital marketing are key focuses. 

“We are implementing new marketing strategies to reassure potential visitors that Erwin is still a prime destination for outdoor recreation,” she said. “Our efforts include targeted digital campaigns, updated visitor information emphasizing available activities, and increased collaboration with travel influencers and tourism partners to spread the word that the area remains open and welcoming.” 

The bottom line is that tourism and outdoor adventure are still thriving in the region. 

“We are open for business,” Dykes said. “We still have a little way to go to get all of our infrastructure repaired to where it was, but people shouldn’t fear coming to stay in Newport.”