Townsend Adds Oversight to Rental Market
Townsend formalized oversight of its short-term rental market through a permitting and inspection system during its regular Board of Commissioners meeting May 19. City staff said the changes are aimed at improving safety standards and giving the city better visibility into the industry. The new ordinance requires short-term rental operators to maintain a city-issued permit […]
Little Arrow Base Camp to Host Grand Opening of New RV Park Concept in Townsend
Little Arrow Outdoor Resort will open a new RV park next month, expanding its Townsend footprint with a separate 38-site concept built around the property’s walkable surroundings. Little Arrow Base Camp, at 8429 Tennessee Highway 73, is set to open by July 1 on the former Hollow campground site, General Manager Allie Jackson said. The […]
Townsend Riverwalk Gearing Up for Next Development Phase
The Townsend Riverwalk and Arboretum is preparing for a new phase of development, offering an asset that could draw more visitors and families to the area. Organizers said the volunteer project is shifting from reclamation to broader community programming. They have plans for a nature learning center, outdoor library and expanded educational opportunities. “We want […]
Blount County Family Revives Dormant Townsend Mini Golf Course
A Blount County family is putting the finishing touches on a revamped miniature golf course in Townsend, with plans to open Cades Cove Golf in time for the Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games May 16-17. Tina and Jerry Simmerly, along with their sons Casey, 20, and Ryne, 24, have spent months renovating a course […]
Townsend Eyes Rules on Rentals, Workforce
Townsend officials are preparing to use a new community plan to guide decisions on short-term rentals, workforce housing and future development in the city’s tourism-driven economy. The Community Plan Advisory Committee delivered the plan to the city manager’s office March 17. City Manager Don Stallions said he expects the city to begin using it to […]
Waylon’s Place Reopens in Townsend with New Management and Vision
Townsend family restaurant Waylon’s Place reopened March 1 under new general management, according to owners Keith and Shawna Freant. Missy Loveday has worked in the restaurant business for more than a decade and brings experience from Riverstone Family Restaurant, Good Vibes & More in Townsend, as well as several restaurants in Gulf Shores, Alabama. “I […]
Townsend Eyes Permit Change to Reduce Event Uncertainty, Streamline Approvals
Townsend staff said a proposed ordinance would shift special event permit approvals from a public vote by the Townsend Commission to an administrative review by city staff, a change officials say is intended to streamline the process without increasing the number of events. Under the new framework, applications would be reviewed administratively by the city […]
Townsend Prepares for Annual Winter Beer Fest
Company Distilling in Townsend will play host to the annual Tennessee Winter Beer Fest Feb. 21, an event that has raised more than $266,000 to date for the New Hope Children’s Advocacy Center. The hoppy celebration promises all-you-can-drink access to at least 20 breweries and helps fill an expanding gap in the nonprofit’s funding. The […]
