I-75 Welcome Center Opens With Round Of Rocky Top
May 14, 2007

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Tennessee Department of Transportation hosted the grand opening ceremonies of Tennessee’s newly completed I-75 Welcome Center in East Ridge on Monday.

Commissioner Susan Whitaker of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Commissioner Gerald Nicely, Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), were on hand to bring remarks and officially open the center with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Special guests also included Congressman Zach Wamp, Commissioner of Veterans Affairs John Keys, Mayor Ron Littlefield and East Ridge Mayor Mike Steele.

Other local elected officials, tourism industry partners and local citizens were part of the grand opening celebration.

“This new welcome center sets the stage for our visitors to enjoy the perfect combination of Tennessee warmth and hospitality,” said Commissioner Whitaker. “The building offers a sense of welcoming. Add to that the outreach of our dedicated staff, and our guests have a great start to the perfect Tennessee vacation experience.”

Commissioner Nicely added, “We are pleased to take part in opening the new I-75 Welcome Center. The new center showcases the many attractions Tennessee has to offer for travelers and helps keep them informed on changing roadway conditions. A kiosk located within the new Welcome Center allows motorists to check their route for any delays so that they don’t spend their time in Tennessee waiting in traffic.”

On hand to add some Tennessee music was the Jack Daniels Band. Best known for their down-home renditions of popular Tennessee favorites, the band closed out the ceremony with a lively version of “Rocky Top.”

In keeping with the Tennessee theme, Coca Cola, Moon Pies and Little Debbie Cakes, as well as other local cuisine, were served.