State Rep. Fred Atchley Announces $25,000 ThreeStar Grant for Sevier County

State Representative Fred Atchley (R-Sevierville) announced today that Sevier County has been awarded a $25,000 grant through the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development's ThreeStar Program. This funding will support local community development initiatives that enhance quality of life and economic opportunities for residents.

The ThreeStar Program is a strategic community development initiative that helps Tennessee communities prepare for the future by maximizing local assets and driving economic development. Sevier County's grant is part of a statewide investment totaling $9.6 million awarded to 34 communities across Tennessee.

"This grant represents an important investment in Sevier County's future," said Rep. Atchley. "These funds will support initiatives that strengthen our economic development and improve the quality of life for our residents. I'm grateful to Governor Lee and Commissioner McWhorter for their continued commitment to helping Tennessee communities thrive."

Tennessee Governor Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter announced the latest round of ThreeStar grants, which support local workforce training, health and economic development initiatives statewide.

"I commend these 34 communities for their commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all Tennesseans," said Gov. Lee. "Tennessee is consistently recognized as one of the best places to live, work and raise a family, and we know when our communities invest in their own growth and well-being, they strengthen that reputation and make our state even more appealing to businesses and families alike."

The ThreeStar Program was updated in 2025 to incorporate asset-based planning and a two-year timeline to accomplish long- and short-term goals. The program helps communities develop strategic goals to maximize their local assets and drive economic development.

To date, 94 of Tennessee's 95 counties have completed the requirements to be certified ThreeStar counties. Certification results in access to other TNECD programs and grant funding. With the program updates, distressed counties are eligible for up to $1 million in grant funding, and other communities are eligible for up to $250,000.