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The Chattanooga Times: Tuesday, April 8, 1997, B3


TVA going ahead on development of Little Cedar
By Noble Sprayberry
The Chattanooga Times

TVA is recruiting a developer to turn Little Cedar Mountain in Marion County into a recreation area, a controversial project pitting environmental protectionism against economic gain.

The county's business leaders consider the effort a potential moneymaker. Others, though, fear that building on the land off Nickajack Lake will devastate a delicate landscape.

Earlier this year, TVA's board of directors approved a plan for the 660 acres, including the possibility of a marina, golf course and private homes.

Now, the agency, which owns the land, is searching for someone to plan, build and operate the recreational haven.

TVA prepared a seven-page brochure filled with color photographs and specifications about the land. A timetable included in the brochure indicated the agency hopes to name a builder by August and have construction begin sometime next year.

There is a clear split over what should happen on the property.

Most of Marion County's lawmakers and many business leaders support the plan, which they believe will bring more money to a growing county in need of the cash from visitors.

Opposition, though, is vocal. Never developed, the land is prime habitat for many birds and animals as well as a favorite stop for hunters.

Concerns expressed during public meetings have ranged from fears over damage to scenic views to concerns that there are unidentified native American burial grounds on the land.

The land, which surrounds the Shellmound Recreation area, is just upstream of Nickajack Dam on the Tennessee River. It's a frequent stop for the annual Fall Color Cruise and Folk Festival.

The property was set aside for development in 1967, but early efforts failed. As part of this development proposal, TVA agreed to devote an adjacent 489 acres to wildlife.