With the release of the Development Concept Plan/Environmental Assessment, Park managers are inviting written or electronic public comments on the proposal during a 30-day review process. Comments are due by April 15.
Tremont’s 10-acre campus, located 3 miles south of Townsend, provides in-depth environmental educational experiences for youths and adults in a residential setting. The Institute is a non-profit partner with the Park and is managed by its own board of directors.
The purpose of the plan is to address the deteriorating conditions of the aging facilities on the Tremont campus. According to officials, the 40-plus year old buildings and infrastructure are inadequate to meet current and future programs.
The Development Concept Plan/Environmental Assessment document identifies 5 different approaches for improvements to the campus, and analyzes impacts on the natural and cultural resources, as well as the projected cost of each alternative ranging from $5.9 million to $51 million.
The Park's preferred option is Alternative C. The following are the five options:
Alternative A would be no changes.
Alternative B calls for limited modifications to the activity center/dining area and dormitory with upgrades to the heating and air condition systems and waste water treatment plant.
Alternative C proposes to rehabilitate or reconstruct the institute’s existing dormitory in its current location. It also plans upgrades to rest room facilities, renovations to optimize classroom and office space, moderate site improvements, and improvements to the institute’s aesthetic appearance. The estimated cost of the improvements is between $5.9 million and $12 million depending upon the extent of the dormitory project improvements.
Alternative D includes moderate site redevelopment that calls for the construction of two new dormitories with renovations to the administration building and staff housing.
Alternative E consists of complete site redevelopment, including construction of all the main buildings: two dormitories, administration building, dining hall and staff housing.
The full document has been posted and is available for public review and comment by clicking here.
Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.
Hiking Tours