GATLINBURG, Tenn. — Great Smoky Mountains National Park announced that multiple projects on the Gatlinburg Spur will require single-lane and shoulder closures beginning September 14 and continuing through September 30. These closures are expected to cause traffic delays for visitors driving between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park urged all travelers to drive with extra caution for the safety of both park personnel and other motorists during the work periods.
The first set of closures, for storm damage repairs, is scheduled for September 14-17, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. This single-lane closure will affect the southbound section of the Spur, specifically between the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and the Gatlinburg City Limit. During this time, the park plans to perform stabilization work on the side of the road, replace concrete curbs, and enhance drainage systems.
Concurrent with the initial storm damage repairs, shoulder closures are planned for utility surveys. From September 14-16, between 7 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., personnel will be conducting utility surveys for future construction. These closures will occur on the north and southbound acceleration ramps near Huskey Grove Bridge. Workers will be positioned behind the guardrails and medians of both northbound and southbound lanes, and motorists are advised to proceed with caution in this area.
Later in the month, from September 21-30, single-lane closures are scheduled near Huskey Grove Bridge for utility work. These closures will run from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with specific adjustments to the schedule. The park intends to initiate these single-lane closures on the southbound lanes before shifting operations to the northbound lanes. Notably, the single-lane closure on the northbound side will affect the tunnel. Work is slated to conclude for the day at noon on September 25 and will not take place over the weekend.
The Spur, approximately 4.2 miles long, is an essential transportation connection within Great Smoky Mountains National Park and forms a segment of the scenic Foothills Parkway. This four-lane divided roadway links Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, serving as a primary gateway for millions of park visitors annually. Recognized as one of the busiest routes in the region, the Spur typically handles an average of 40,000 vehicles per day during the peak summer season.
For the most current information regarding road closures and construction updates, visitors are encouraged to consult the park's official website.
