TN Dept. of Environment and Conservation soaring in 2020 with several projects improving state parks

In the most unlikely of years thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, one TN State department has made significant strides with projects and has higher expectations set for 2021.

The Department of Environment and Conservation has invested $184 million in capital projects this year, that has resulted in the opening of multi-million dollar lodges and visitor centers spread through four state parks. Projects include the following:

*A 117-room lodge at Montgomery Bell State Park in Burns
*An $11.7 million renovation of the lodge at Pickwick Landing State Park in Counce
*A $3 million visitors center at Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer
*A new $2.8 million visitors center at Cummins Falls State Park in Cookeville

These projects will support nearly 500 jobs and an economic impact of more than $131 million. A number of projects are in the works, including a new $40 million, 85 room lodge expected to open next year at Fall Creek Falls State Park in Middle TN.

Photo Courtesy: TN State Parks