“We have an attitude of constant improvement,” Mathis says. “We want to get better at everything we do—whether that’s economic development, disaster response, or community engagement.” When Hurricane Helene swept through the region, the people of Cocke County responded with strength and unity. “The community stepped up in ways that were truly inspiring,” Mathis recalls. “We have a saying here: We’re unified, we’re positive, and we’re mountain strong. That resilience has come to define us.”
Strategic Development: The Future of Cocke County
Cocke County’s prime location along major transportation routes provides an incredible opportunity for growth. With six interstate exits, the county is positioning itself as a gateway to some of Tennessee’s most visited destinations, including Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Pigeon Forge. “We have one fully developed exit, one that’s about 50% developed, and four more that are blank canvases,” Mathis says. “Exit 440, for example, is the closest interstate exit to Gatlinburg. The Tennessee Department of Transportation has committed $22 million to redesigning and lighting up that exit, and we’re working to bring in the infrastructure needed to support future development.”
The county’s proactive approach is already attracting investors.
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