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The state of Tennessee has announced plans for the creation of an $8 million events center for Panther Creek State Park projected to open in July of 2024.

The center – which will include a recreation building and new ADA approved playground – will be a modern heavy timber lodge-type space with exterior covered porch areas in line with current Tennessee State Parks architecture.

The building will include interior and exterior event spacs as well as service areas for events.

The exterior of the building will consist of stone veneer and glas curtainwall systems with a metal roof, in line with the rest of the park.

The new playground will be fully ADA accessible with covered/shaded seating for visitors.

The playground should accommodate a maximum of 100 kids with age-appropriate equipment and exterior lighting.

The recreation building will cover about an acre and be built upon the location of the Panther Creek pool area, replacing the existing playground.

State officials originally announced plans to replace the pool, which had been closed due to structural integrity issues last year, but a public outcry led to announcement that the pool had been saved.

However, as state officials rexamined the pool area, the determination was made to find another way to use the space that would be more beneficial to the community year round.

State officials said the pool – which is 36 years old – was operating at an annual loss of $60,000 prior to the pandemic which has only made the operation of public pools more difficult nationwide. They indicated that the estimated $580,000 to get the pool reopened was based on a 2019 estimate and the real figure is closer to $780,000.

In addition, they cited a nationwide shortage of certified lifeguards and the fact that the pool was only scheduled to be open 70 days a year – from Memorial Day until the start of school in August – as factors in the decision to scuttle the pool and build the recreation center.

TDEC officials also indicated that public pools are not in line with the state parks’ mission and that an event center is better use of both the space and the money.

Officials also pointed to Morristown Landing, the lake and the public splashpad at Fred Miller park as acceptable alternatives for public swimming.