waited over 60 years for a resolution to this issue, and the federal government should not delay that resolution one more day. This letter asks for a reasonable settlement which will maintain the undisturbed wilderness of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and save the American taxpayers millions of dollars.”

Sen. Elizabeth Dole, R-NC

“It is abundantly clear from the Park Service’s assessment that the environmental and economic costs to build the North Shore Road are just too great. It’s time to bring this 60-year controversy to a close, and it’s time to focus our efforts on providing the citizens of Swain County with compensation to make good on the government’s commitment.”

Sen. Richard Burr, R-NC, did not sign on

“I am aware that some of my colleagues suggest we now seek a financial settlement. Unfortunately, we do not have assurances that the federal funding needed to fulfill the commitment made to the citizens of Swain County is achievable, nor is there agreement within the community that this is the right decision. The community remains split on how to resolve this matter.”