Burgess Falls State Park in Tennessee is set to receive significant upgrades, including a new Visitor Center and aviary. While these improvements are eagerly anticipated, they will bring temporary disruptions to the park experience.
Park Manager Nathaniel Garrison expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming features, stating, “We always want our visitors to be able to enjoy the park as much as possible, and we can’t wait to see these new features.” He also acknowledged the potential inconveniences during the construction phase and asked for visitors’ understanding.
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The construction project will affect parking availability. Currently, the park has 84 parking spaces, with 51 in the lower lot and 33 in the upper lot. The upper lot will be used as a staging ground for construction equipment and supplies, reducing the number of available spaces. This is expected to last until the project’s completion in 2026. The park already faces parking challenges, particularly on weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
Additionally, the construction of the new Visitor Center will necessitate the removal of several trees near the road to accommodate underground utilities, a new entrance, and parking spaces. The project’s initial phase includes building a new maintenance facility, scheduled for completion this summer. This facility will temporarily house the park office until the new Visitor Center is finished. The old park office, ranger residence, and maintenance building will be demolished to make way for the new construction.
Due to high visitation periods, park officials urge visitors not to park on roadsides or in non-designated areas. They also recommend visiting on weekdays or exploring other nearby state parks when the park is crowded.
For more information about Burgess Falls State Park, visit the official park website.
Source: Read Original Release
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