SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) - The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is set to fully reopen as the federal government shutdown continues.

Officials with Sevier County made the announcement Friday, saying the park will fully reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, per an agreement with the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Interior and the county.

“It is disappointing that the federal government has once again failed to prevent a shutdown that puts our national parks and communities at risk,” said Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters. “Thankfully, our state and local partners have stepped up once again to ensure Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open. The park is a vital part of our regional economy, and closing it during peak fall season is simply not an option. We are proud to

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