In the heart of Appalachia, nestled among the Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest, Cocke County, Tennessee, stands as a testament to resilience, natural beauty, and a thriving community. Mayor Rob Mathis, an ardent advocate for his county, believes in the people and the land that define it. “The only thing more beautiful than the land here, than the scenery here in Cocke County, is the people,” he says. Cocke County is a place where history and progress intertwine, where small- town charm meets ambitious development, and where the community stands unwavering in the face of challenges. In an exclusive interview with Built America Magazine, Mayor Mathis shared insights into the county’s strategic growth, hidden gems, commitment to sustainability, and steadfast resilience in the face of adversity.
A Vision for Economic Growth
Cocke County is not just surviving—it’s thriving. The local government has identified six key areas for economic expansion: manufacturing, distribution, tourism, local business, agriculture, and technology. “With each of those areas growing, so does the need for infrastructure,” Mathis explains. “We’re working to build the capacity for that growth, ensuring that we have the buildings, utilities, and resources to support new opportunities.”
93
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator