GATLINBURG, Tenn.— The City of Gatlinburg is thrilled to announce the completion of a new emergency air medical transport landing zone, which was a collaborative effort with the University of Tennessee Medical Center’s LifeStar. The construction of this landing zone is aimed at enhancing emergency medical response and patient care in Gatlinburg, which will significantly improve the speed and efficiency of transporting critically ill and injured patients to advanced medical care facilities.
“The completion of this landing zone marks the City’s ongoing commitment to the health and safety of our community, including our residents and millions of visitors,” Gatlinburg Fire Chief Charlie Cole said. “This facility ensures that individuals have quick access to the emergency medical services provided by LifeStar, with transportation to the University of Tennessee Medical Center.”
The landing zone is located near the north entrance to Gatlinburg off of Dudley Creek Road, which allows for rapid access for the City’s EMS crews in emergency transportation. The location also allows for EMS crews to rapidly transport patients via ground if emergency air transportation is cancelled or unavailable.
The City would like to commend its Street Department, the Building Maintenance Department, the Fire Department and Blalock’s for handling different phases of the construction. The construction process included the installation of safety measures of advanced lighting, signage, and fencing which were all installed to protect medical personnel and the public.
“The City is ecstatic to partner with LifeStar on this critical infrastructure, which will reduce response times and improve patient outcomes by providing timely access to specialized medical care during times of emergencies,” Gatlinburg City Manager Greg Patterson said. “This was a much-needed item and shows the City’s dedication to continually find ways to ensure the health and safety of the Gatlinburg community.”
For the latest updates from the City of Gatlinburg, visit GatlinburgTN.gov or visit the City’s Social Media pages on Facebook and Twitter.
###