Rocky Top, TN – This tiny city is letting the good times roll for off-road vehicles.
Officials celebrated legislation which allows all-terrain vehicles to ride on part of the city's main drag — U.S. Highway 25W.
Lawmakers amended current statutes in their latest session to allow ATVs to be driven through Rocky Top from the highway's intersection with Colonial Lane to Jacksboro Avenue.
The legislation "allows riders from Windrock Park to access the commerce area of Rocky Top," Mayor Mike Lovely said.
Lovely said the change translates into a tourism boon to the city because off-road enthusiasts will be able to directly access what's described as the country's largest privately owned off-road recreation area.
The park, which encompasses more than 72,000 acres, includes miles of ATV trails, hiking trails and paths for mountain biking. TVA's Buffalo Mountain Wind Farm, comprising of 18 huge windmills, overlooks the park.
"Thousands of people visit Windrock Park every year," said Stephanie Wells, director of Anderson County's Tourism Council.
"This will allow those visitors to come into the city of Rocky Top, buy gas, eat at restaurants and stay at the hotels."
Anderson County Commissioner Tim Isbel said the legislation should also entice people to open businesses in Rocky Top that cater to ATV riders and other off-road enthusiasts.
Rocky Top Police Chief Jim Shetterly said the safety of residents and ATV riders is his first priority.
"People wishing to ride in town will have to register and receive a permit" and follow all safety requirements, he said. Lovely said a permit to ride in Rocky Top will be $5 a year and can be obtained from City Hall and the police department.
He said riders will be required to wear helmets, be 16 and older and have a valid driver's license.
More information is available at the city of Rocky Top at (865) 426-2838 or by email at mfoster@cityofrockytoptn.com.
Rocky Top was formerly called Lake City until council members approved the name change in a bid to increase tourism and in hopes that tourist attractions would blossom.
