GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WVLT) - Leaders in the Sevier County area are appealing to Marsha Blackburn, asking for the governor-hopeful’s help in reopening U.S. Highway 411, better known as Newfound Gap Road.

It comes after a rockslide closed the road earlier in the month, with the reopening expected in early October. In all, the City of Gatlinburg, whose mayor sent the letter, City of Pigeon Forge, City of Sevierville and Sevier County jumped on the appeal.

Previous Coverage: Newfound Gap Road closure causing travel changes for tourists

“The closure of U.S. 441 is having, and will continue to have, a detrimental effect on the economy of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Sevier County, and communities in Western North Carolina — particularly during this critical fall visitation period,"

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