The most recent project kickoff is the pre-NEPA, surveys, conceptual alternatives development, NEPA and Section 106 compliance for the development of Foothills Parkways Section 8D. Foothills Parkway was authorized in 1944 and, since then, 37 miles of the 72-mile parkway have been constructed. Section 8D would connect the entire eastern portion of the parkway from the Gatlinburg Spur to Chilhowee.
A fifth project examines access improvements from Wears Valley into the Metcalf Bottoms section of the park, which could potentially include a direct connection from Section 8D.