Breaking News: Pigeon forge rod run organizers are now trying to move the events to a better and more sustainable area due to……………. More details
In a major development that could signal the end of a decades-old tradition in its current form, organizers of the legendary *Pigeon Forge Rod Run* have announced plans to potentially relocate the event to a “more sustainable and better-equipped location” due to growing concerns over traffic gridlock, public safety challenges, and environmental impact.
For years, the Rod Run has been a hallmark of East Tennessee’s car culture, drawing thousands of classic car lovers, hot rod enthusiasts, and curious tourists twice a year to the scenic Smoky Mountains town. However, the event’s explosive popularity has become both its greatest strength—and its biggest liability.
According to organizers, the city’s infrastructure is no longer capable of safely supporting the immense crowds, with each event bringing in an estimated 100,000+ visitors, often leading to bumper-to-bumper traffic along the Parkway, overwhelmed emergency services, and complaints from local residents and business owners.
“We love Pigeon Forge, and it’s been the heartbeat of the Rod Run for decades,” said *Steve Reynolds*, one of the event’s long-time organizers. “But our top priority has to be safety, sustainability, and the experience of everyone involved—including residents. We’ve reached a tipping point where we must seriously evaluate a new venue that can handle our growth.
Local law enforcement has echoed these sentiments. The Pigeon Forge Police Department has often had to double its staffing during Rod Run weekends and coordinate with state and county agencies. Despite those efforts, issues like illegal street racing, excessive noise, and blocked emergency lanes have become persistent problems.
“The event brings a lot of revenue, no doubt,” said *Captain Lisa Holloway* of the PFPD. “But our officers are exhausted, and we’ve had too many near-miss incidents when ambulances couldn’t get through. Public safety shouldn’t be compromised.
Some residents have called for the event to be banned altogether if improvements aren’t made. Others, particularly those dependent on the influx of tourism dollars, are urging organizers to find a middle ground.
Environmental advocates have also weighed in, citing the increased pollution, trash, and noise as detrimental to the delicate ecosystem of the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
In contrast, many business owners in Pigeon Forge are concerned about the possible relocation. The Rod Run typically delivers a significant spike in hotel bookings, restaurant traffic, and retail sales—some establishments claim the event weekends are among their highest-grossing periods of the year.
“This event puts us in the black for the year,” said *Tonya Mitchell*, owner of a local diner. “If they move, it could be a huge loss unless something similar takes its place.
While no official site has been selected, organizers are reportedly in talks with several cities in Tennessee and neighboring states, including Sevierville, Knoxville, and even as far as Asheville, North Carolina. Key criteria include more parking space, multi-lane access roads, and venue flexibility for car showcases and vendor setups.
“Whatever decision we make, it will be with the community and the future of the Rod Run in mind,” Reynolds said. “We want to preserve the spirit of the event—just in a place where everyone can thrive.
Organizers say a final decision will likely be made before the 2026 Spring Rod Run, giving stakeholders time to weigh in and plan accordingly. A public town hall is scheduled for late July, where residents and business owners will be invited to voice their concerns and suggestions.
As the iconic event stands at a crossroads, one thing is clear: the Rod Run’s future may roll on—but it may not be on the familiar roads of Pigeon Forge.
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d for more updates as this story develops.