KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Business leaders gathered in Sevier County on Tuesday to announce plans for a brand new leisure district at The 407: Gateway to the Adventure tourism improvement.

Leaders held a groundbreaking ceremony for “Smoky Gap,” an leisure district set within the early 1900s that includes Americana-themed storefronts and a big clocktower.

It will characteristic eating places, storefronts and leisure sights together with the previously-announced Cherokee history-inspired attraction from international theme park company Puy Du Fou.

The 407: Gateway to Adventure undertaking is operated by Kituwah LLC, an organization owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Kituwah CEO Mark Hubble referenced the corporate’s current funding into the Sports Illustrated Resorts model at Tuesday’s occasion, a touch on the potential second section of improvement on the web site.

Smoky Gap is anticipated to open in 2025 as a part of Phase One of the Exit 407 undertaking. A Marriott Courtyard on the web site can be deliberate for 2025.

A Kituwah LLC launch stated the second section will characteristic a vacation spot resort designed to “elevate The 407: Gateway to Adventure into an overnight world-class destination.”

The web site will formally open this summer season when the huge Buc-ee’s Travel Center opens its doorways. At greater than 74,000 sq. ft, It will briefly maintain the title of world’s largest convenience store.

Sevierville Mayor Robbie Fox stated the district will present the realm with nighttime leisure choices that the City of Sevierville doesn’t at present have.