AGP Executive Report

Fourth of July Travel Pulse: AAA expects a record 72 million Americans to travel during the July 4 holiday week, with 61+ million driving—good news for Tennessee road trips, especially as gas prices keep easing. Public Health Watch: A parasite causing “explosive” diarrhea (Cyclospora/cyclosporiasis) has been reported across multiple states, including Tennessee, as officials urge travelers to stay alert to food and water safety. Smokies & Outdoors: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is set to grow after a 600-acre conservation purchase, adding more protected land for hikers and nature lovers. Local Tourism & Culture: Oak Ridge Playhouse brings “Come From Away” to the stage July 10–26, a must for visitors planning a Tennessee arts stop. Memphis Updates: Downtown Memphis Commission design plans cleared for new rooftop signage at the Memphis Art Museum. Road-Trip Planning: Tennessee’s highway construction pauses for the holiday, with lane closures suspended to help travelers get where they’re going. Family-Friendly Fun: Independence Day events and fireworks are rolling out across Tennessee communities as America turns 250. Camp Cherokee Masterplan: McMinn County is nearing consensus on a long-term forest masterplan for Camp Cherokee, with trails, boating access, and new recreation areas in the mix.

Independence Day Safety in Nashville: Metro police will flood downtown for the two-day “Let Freedom Sing” celebration, with 330+ street barriers, strict bag/weapon rules, and a drone flight restriction area through July 21—plus parking guidance for the expected 250,000+ crowd. Road-Trip Costs: AAA says Tennessee gas prices average $3.38, down 12 cents over the past week, as 1.47 million Tennesseans are expected to drive for July 4. Health Alert for Travelers: CDC reports a rise in Cyclospora (“explosive” diarrhea) across 17 states since May 1, with Tennessee among those seeing cases—officials urge extra caution with produce and food handling. Local Mosquito Watch: Metro Public Health confirmed West Nile virus in 2026 via infected mosquito pools near Cass Street in North Nashville, with larvicide and standing-water outreach underway. Memphis Community Drive: FOX13 and United Way’s “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive runs through July 30, with a July 31 drop-off/volunteer event at the Memphis Sports & Events Center. Travel Disruption: A tractor-trailer hauling live crabs caught fire on I-81 near Morristown, closing an off-ramp before reopening after 4:30 p.m.

Fourth of July in Williamson County: Franklin, Brentwood and Spring Hill are gearing up for bigger Independence Day celebrations tied to America’s 250th, including Franklin’s Declaration reading, parades, and a longer Harlinsdale Farm fireworks show. Local History & Tourism: The Tennessean spotlights Tennessee’s presidential sites for America 250, including Nashville’s Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage, and also looks at how “farmer presidents” shaped U.S. agriculture policy. Cruise Health Watch: CDC reports a norovirus outbreak aboard Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess sickened 102 guests and 23 crew, adding to multiple 2026 cruise outbreaks. Food Safety Alert: A Cyclospora outbreak has sickened at least 145 people across 17 states, with Tennessee among the listed states. Nashville Travel & Luxury: WhipNash launches in Nashville, offering exotic and luxury car rentals delivered directly to clients at BNA, hotels and events. Memphis Dining: East Memphis restaurant roundup highlights spots built for long-term success.

Mosquito Watch in Nashville: Metro Public Health says West Nile virus was detected in a mosquito pool near Cass Street, its first positive sample of 2026, and urges residents to prevent bites. Local Accountability: Three former Obion County Nursing and Rehab employees were indicted after an investigation alleged they took more than $561,000 in unearned compensation. Holiday Travel Ops: TDOT will suspend most lane closures for the July 4 holiday (no construction-related closures from noon July 2 to 6 a.m. July 6), though work zones may still have reduced speeds. America 250 on the Move: Dolly Parton opened “Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop” off I-65 in Cornersville, adding to the growing wave of road-trip stops and roadside attractions. Family-Friendly History Stop: A free traveling Revolutionary War exhibit, “American Revolution Experience,” is set to run at the East Tennessee History Center in Knoxville through July 7. Health Alert Beyond TN: CDC is investigating a cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to produce in 17 states, with guidance to wash and scrub fruits and vegetables.

July 4 Travel Update: TDOT will suspend construction-related lane closures across Tennessee from noon July 2 through 6 a.m. July 6, though long-term work zones may still mean reduced speeds and workers on site. Outdoor Escapes: A new “Woodlands Trace” route highlights Land Between the Lakes, with 170,000 acres, 300 miles of shoreline, and trails plus bison and elk roaming. Smokies Hiking Picks: Great Smoky Mountains National Park gets a ranked list of 10 top trails, including the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte. Local Events (Nashville): The July 3–4 “Let Freedom Sing! Music City July 4th” celebration brings multiple stages, family activities, and Nashville’s biggest fireworks and drone show for America’s 250th. Family-Friendly Fun: A July 5 roundup spotlights free local attractions for residents (with examples like museums and tours). Travel Safety: Officials urge wildfire readiness—have a go-kit, evacuation plan, and protect property by clearing fuels near homes.

Supreme Court & Immigration: The U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Trump’s push to end birthright citizenship, ruling that babies born in the U.S. are citizens under the 14th Amendment—an outcome Tennessee immigrant-rights advocates called a relief even as new state immigration restrictions loom. Trans Sports: The court also upheld state bans on transgender girls competing in girls’ sports, keeping the patchwork of restrictions in place across about half the states. Road-Trip Reality Check: AAA expects about 1.6 million Tennesseans to travel for Independence Day, and warns that extreme heat can hit cars hard—batteries, tires, and interior temperatures can spike fast. Family-Friendly Events: Flipstar gymnasts brought home 41 medals at AAU Nationals in Tennessee, including national champion and runner-up honors. Local Tourism Buzz: A “Music City to Sin City” supercar rally rolled through Bardstown, drawing big crowds and boosting downtown energy. Health Alert: A cyclospora outbreak tied to watery diarrhea has sickened people across multiple states, with public health officials still hunting for the source.

Holiday Travel Prep: TDOT says it’s ready for winter weather with salt and brine stocked statewide, and also plans to suspend construction lane closures from July 2 noon to July 6 at 6 a.m. to keep Fourth of July traffic moving. State Parks & Outdoor Tourism: A new analysis puts Tennessee State Parks’ economic impact at $1.9B, supporting 13,587 jobs and driving major household income and tax revenue. Road-Trip Reality Check: AAA reports Tennessee gas prices are down (average $3.38), while TDOT urges drivers to use 511/TNSmartWay for live updates. Local Events & Family Fun: Heritage FFA at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend is hosting a July 4 “Back the Beef” hamburger giveaway and beef-themed contest. Nashville Visitor Angle: A USA TODAY feature highlights the best Nashville Airbnbs for travelers, plus a separate story on a Kimpton Hotels heiress sharing hotel tips. Travel Culture: The Mood Kings kick off a North Carolina–Tennessee–Virginia tour with a “small-town radio” themed concert experience.

Road-Trip Ready for July 4: TDOT is suspending Tennessee construction-related lane closures from noon Thursday through 6 a.m. Monday, and Rural HELP trucks will patrol West Tennessee interstates daily for free roadside help during operational hours—good news for the more than 1.4 million Tennesseans expected to drive. Blood Drive Boost: Blood Assurance is offering $40 e-gift cards to donors June 29–July 7 as local hospital supplies run low ahead of the holiday rush. Nashville Baseball Weekend: The Nashville College Baseball Series is set to kick off in March at First Horizon Park, with Vanderbilt joining teams traveling in for the tournament. Upper Cumberland Nature Access: Waterfalls For All, powered by Visit Cookeville, launched a new documentary with a viewing party celebrating accessible waterfall info across the region. Gatlinburg Wildlife Moment: A curious black bear cub wandered into a family cookout, sniffing the grill before calmly moving on. Travel Safety Reminder: With summer heat building, plan ahead for vehicle strain and keep roadside assistance options handy.

Nashville Business Buzz: A new Bank of America report finds Nashville small and mid-sized owners are still upbeat—74% expect revenue growth and 59% plan to expand, even as inflation and supply-chain issues squeeze costs. Bonnaroo Travel Reality Check: Bonnaroo’s return after last year’s weather disruption drew about 45,000 fans, with mud and heat included in the package—plus tips on making it work on a student budget. July 4 Hosting Tech: Airbnb is rolling out anti-party tools for the holiday weekend, redirecting higher-risk whole-home bookings to lower-risk options like private rooms and hotels. Memphis River Myth-Buster: A look at why the Mississippi River can feel “shallow” in Memphis—depth varies wildly along the 2,350-mile route, shaping how people experience the riverfront. Outdoor Plans in the Heat: The National Weather Service warns a dangerous heat wave with high humidity is set to hit much of the eastern U.S. ahead of July 4, with Nashville among cities facing peak conditions. East Tennessee Access Upgrade: Greene County and Cherokee National Forest signed a cooperation deal using $3.1M in Hurricane Helene relief funds for campground improvements and better signage for visitors. Music on Main (Not Tennessee, but travel-worthy): Teton Valley Foundation’s Music on Main lineup runs June 18–Aug. 13 in Victor, Idaho, with donation-based shows and weekly national acts.

Mural Tour in Music City: Nashville Adventures and JHR Photography are teaming up to launch the Nashville Mural Photo Tour, a private, veteran-owned experience built around iconic murals and hidden photo spots, with professionally edited high-resolution images. Domestic Violence Awareness in Nashville: Gabby Petito’s family traveled to Nashville for the “Break the Silence” benefit at JBJ’s Sunday, sharing her story and pushing red-flag awareness around isolation and controlling behavior. Heatwave Warning for Summer Travel: The National Weather Service is flagging a prolonged, dangerous heatwave with high humidity across much of the U.S., with heat index values potentially topping 115—an important heads-up for Tennessee road trips and outdoor plans. Road Disruption in East Tennessee: A sinkhole closed Main Street in Newport (Jefferson Ave to Broadway) after heavy rain, with detours in place until repairs and safety checks are completed. Safety Reminder for Travelers: A convicted “jugging” case in Sumner County involved a stolen $30,000 Rolex after a jewelry-store visit—another reminder to secure valuables and avoid leaving items in vehicles. Outdoor/Local Leadership: Tennessee named Heather Slayton as the new state forester, overseeing forestry programs across more than 168,000 acres of state-owned forestland.

Patriotism & Community: A Nashville-area woman is leading a Heroes Field of Honor effort, placing U.S. flags at Fellowship Church for Sept. 11 remembrance. State Forestry Leadership: Gov. Bill Lee appointed Heather Slayton as Tennessee state forester, overseeing 168,000 acres of state forests and wildfire, health, and landowner programs. Travel & Routes: Contour Airlines is evaluating new Caribbean routes, using Puerto Rico as a connecting hub—good news for Tennesseans eyeing island getaways. Road Trip Culture: With Spirit Airlines shutting down, a bus travel boom may be coming, and Greyhound demand is reportedly rising on routes that overlap former Spirit flights. Outdoor & Family Fun: Paris Landing State Park opened a new tactile trail for blind and low-vision visitors, designed as an easy 0.1-mile loop with guide rope and cane-detectable rail. Holiday Weather Watch: A heat-and-storm pattern is building ahead of July 4, with the Tennessee Valley in the heat dome zone and storm chances that could affect travel. Smokies Land Protection: Foothills Land Conservancy is close to transferring 600+ acres to Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Townsend and Cades Cove. Local Planning: TDOT is holding public meetings on the I-40/I-75 West Knoxville corridor study, from June 29 through July 1.

Holiday Travel Watch: A major heat-and-storm pattern is expected to build next week ahead of the July 4th weekend, with a heat dome centered over the Ohio Valley/Mississippi Valley/Tennessee Valley and multiple days in the 90s plus humidity and possible thunderstorms. Airport Disruption: Nashville International Airport saw a Saturday ground delay after a power outage hit the Air Traffic Control Facility, with the FAA estimating about 98 minutes of average delay for departures and hundreds of travelers affected. Outdoors & Nature: Cherokee National Forest welcomed a new forest supervisor, Mike Wright, leading Tennessee’s 660,000-acre Smokies-adjacent public lands with campgrounds, trails, rivers, and scenic byways. Family Fun (Free): Warriors’ Path State Park’s Summer in the Park continues with a week of free hikes, habitat talks, games, and July 4-style treats. Local Tourism & Events: The Birthplace of Country Music is hosting a qualifying round for Tennessee Songwriters Week at its Bristol museum, with finalists earning a shot at the Bluebird Cafe stage in Nashville. Arts Call: Caldwell Arts Council is seeking sculptors for its 40th Annual Sculpture Celebration in North Carolina, with cash awards and free help for setup and removal.

Travel & Tourism Spotlight: Townsend, the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” is drawing retirees with a quieter base near Cades Cove—while still keeping Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge within a short drive. Visitor Safety & Planning: AAA reports Tennessee gas prices keep sliding, with the state average down 15 cents to $3.60, and notes oil-market uncertainty tied to the Strait of Hormuz. Outdoor & Nature: Nokian Tyres’ Road Trip Guide is inviting drivers to submit off-the-beaten-path Tennessee-area destinations, pairing inspiration with road-safety tips. Heritage & Community: Newport’s Newport Housing Authority won a $718,752 NPS grant to stabilize and repair the historic Rhea Mims Hotel after Hurricane Helene flooding. Family Fun & Events: Jackson County Park’s inaugural Paddle the Parks drew 58 paddlers and aims to grow Tennessee River recreation locally. Road & Schedule Watch: Tennessee football SEC kickoff windows for 2026 are set, including the Sept. 26 Texas game at noon on ABC/ESPN.

Road-Trip Fuel Watch: AAA says Tennessee gas prices keep sliding, down to about $3.50 statewide, and projects a record Fourth of July travel surge with 1.6M Tennesseans heading out (mostly by car) Music & Main Street: Greeneville’s free American Downtown Celebration hits July 5 with live music, a kids’ zone, food vendors, a night parade, hot dog contest, and fireworks Smokies Visitor Experience: Great Smoky Mountains National Park leans on nonprofit partners as visitation climbs but funding and maintenance needs lag Concert Noise Rules: Creekbend Co. in Hope agreed to new concert limits starting in July—capping sound at 65 dB at the property line—after local pushback Family-Friendly Storytelling: Jonesborough Storytellers Guild brings “Graveyard Tales” to the McKinney Center Sept. 7 (not for kids under 12) and “Tellabration! 2025” runs Oct. 12 New Hospitality Stop: Dolly Parton made a rare appearance at the opening of Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop near Cornersville on I-65, about an hour south of Nashville Safety Note: A Knoxville-area motorcyclist died June 23 after a crash on I-75 in Anderson County

Fourth of July in Rutherford County: Communities across Rutherford County are gearing up for the U.S. 250th birthday with fireworks, music, and parade-style celebrations—plus Eagleville’s Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting set to kick off the anniversary spirit. Nashville tourism nostalgia: The Tennessee State Museum is exploring partners to restore the Red Grooms “Tennessee Fox Trot Carousel,” a beloved riverfront attraction dismantled in 2003 and still in storage. Outdoor travel safety: World Atlas highlights tick-heavy spots in Tennessee, including Nashville/Davidson County and the Great Smoky Mountains area—warning visitors to plan for long pants and extra caution. Pigeon Forge travel update: Hard Rock Cafe is ending operations at its Pigeon Forge location on Aug. 23, a notable shift for a town that draws millions of visitors each year. Foodservice for visitors: Chef’s Deal launches a Priority Equipment Support initiative to help Tennessee restaurants and caterers avoid event-season downtime. Music & summer plans: Garden & Gun spotlights Owensboro’s live-music scene, including the weekly Friday After 5 concerts.

Dolly Parton’s Tennessean Travel Stop (Cornersville) Opens: The singer surprised fans at the June 24 ribbon-cutting for her new I-65 travel center, with Dolly-themed merch, a Southern restaurant, dog park, mural, EV charging, and a 24/7 trucker setup including showers and “Cup of Ambition” coffee. Road-Trip & Family Fun: Reelfoot Lake in northwest Tennessee hosts the inaugural Reelfoot Ultimate Crappie Challenge June 27-28, with a $10,000 top prize and events tied to the Bill Dance Signature Lake program. Accessibility Upgrade: Paris Landing State Park opened a new 0.1-mile tactile trail designed for visitors who are blind or have low vision, featuring guide rope, cane-detectable rail, and touch-friendly interpretive elements. Local Tourism Boost: Hamilton County will open a temporary downtown Chattanooga history museum in August, funded by lodging-tax dollars and built to test demand for a permanent site. Downtown Construction Watch: Franklin’s East Main Street bridge will partially close as TDOT begins replacing the 100-year-old crossing, with the project estimated to run through July 2028. Sports on the Calendar: The Nashville Predators released their 2026 preseason schedule, including two home games at Bridgestone Arena.