Friday, February 22, 2013

Cherokee and Park Service Offer Incentives for Early Repair of US 441

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the National Park Service are offering up to a $500,000 incentive for early completion of landslide repairs to U.S. 441 through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park - indicating both entities' concerns about the road closure's effects on Cherokee's economy. A 200-foot section of U.S. 441 in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park collapsed in a landslide during a week of heavy rainfall last month, forcing the park service to close the road, which serves as the main artery for motorists traveling from Tennessee to Cherokee. The park estimated the 3 to 7 million repair job would likely take until mid- to late May.

To give the contractor incentive, the Eastern Band and National Park Service have announced that they will pay $18,000 for every day repairs are completed before May 15. Together, they will dole out up to $500,000. However, if the company does not finish the project on time, it will cost. The contract with the park service will charge the contractor $18,000 for every day repairs go past May 15. Business leaders in Cherokee were glad that both entities are taking a proactive approach to ensure that U.S. 441 reopens in time for the main tourist season.

Find more NC mountain news updates on the NC Mountain News Guide.

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