SPECIAL USE PERMIT TO ADMINISTER RETAIL SALES AREA AT OCOEE WHITEWATER CENTER

Notice Date

May 7, 2001

Contracting Office

USDA, Forest Service, PO Box 2010, Cleveland, TN 37320

ZIP Code

37320

Description

The USDA, Forest Service, Cherokee National Forest, plans to administer the retail sales area at the Ocoee Whitewater Center, Polk County, Tennessee, under a special use permit or agreement beginning January 1, 2002. The Ocoee Whitewater Center (OWC) was the site of the 1996 Olympic Canoe and Kayak Slalom Competition. Since the Olympic games over 600,000 people have visited the OWC. Expected 2001 visitation is 150,000. The OWC provides the following services: -- Regional visitor information. -- 12 miles of hiking and biking trails (32 more miles under development). -- Water play. -- Picnicking. -- Conservation education and interpretive programs. -- Ocoee River access for boaters. -- Special Events, e.g., mountain bike and foot races, whitewater, etc. The purpose of the 1200 square foot retail sales area is to provide products and services to transient customers and outdoor recreation users. The product line will include, but is not limited to, outdoor recreational accessories and gear, such as clothing and hiking and biking supplies. Environmental education interpretive materials and books are a large part of the product line. Food service, mountain bike rental, hosting special events and other services may be included in the special use permit. A business and marketing plan will be required as part of the permit. The permit will be for a minimum of three years with extension clauses. Gross receipt from retail sales in 1998, 1999, and 2000 were $144,000, $125,000 and $134,000 respectively. A monthly rental fee for use of the retail sales will be assessed. The fee covers all utilities except telephone and fax. Interested parties may contact Robert Lee, telephone 423/338-5201, or e-mail rlee01@fs.fed.us by June 10, 2001.

Record

Loren Data Corp. 20010509/SPMSC010.HTM (W-127 SN50L3T0)