Townsend receives Municipal League award for Excellence in Community Planning

Known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” officials with the city of Townsend take seriously their responsibility of preserving the unique character and natural beauty that both attracts residents and visitors who come through the community as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  

In recognition of the dedicated efforts made by the city of Townsend to preserve their local assets both for area residents and millions of national and international visitors, the Tennessee Municipal League is pleased to present Townsend with an award for Excellence in Community Planning. 

While Townsend’s population is only around 550, the city is one of the three major gateways to the national park, which brought in 14 million visitors in 2021. Situated in Tuckaleeche Cove, Townsend’s clean mountain air, majestic scenery, and opportunities for outdoor recreation have made it a destination for those wanting to explore the mountain history and heritage of the region. 

To preserve this culture for both residents and visitors, Townsend officials began a community plan in 2022 aimed at protecting and preserving what makes Townsend special. In 2023, Mayor Don Prater sought the assistance of UT-MTAS and the East Tennessee Development District to prepare a competitive proposal to better determine the city’s goals and vision for the future. 

A Community Plan Advisory Committee was established to review proposals, select consultants, identify funding sources, hold public meetings, speak with stakeholders, and examine useful data for the plan’s framework. Meeting weekly, the committee is charged with finding a plan that helps Townsend remain attractive and economically successful while still protecting its vibrant natural, cultural, and historic resources.