CHEROKEE TRIBE Cherokee, North Carolina

The Eastern Band of the Cherokee, which is the only tribe in North Carolina that is recognized by the federal government, is located in western North Carolina. The Tribe consists of approximately 14,000 enrolled members and holds 56,000 acres for their Qualla Boundary.

The City of Cherokee hired MLD to study the opportunities to bring greater tourism to the area and plan locations within the community for placing specific shopping, entertainment, and cultural venues.

The City of Cherokee wanted to foster economic development, but had met with a divisive citizenry regarding such development. The very idea of what exactly would spark economic revitalization was in question, as attendance at their principle attraction had dwindled over the past 40 years.

MLD was asked to help develop a master plan which would address the principle challenges to economic success of the area. MLD presented several options to stakeholders, that included a revamped community plan, amphitheater, RV park and multi use proposals.