Investors are looking to purchase about 900 acres of land near the Red River Gorge with plans to construct a destination resort. Among other things, the proposed development calls for a 170-room lodge, cottages, on-site distillery and restaurant and linked nature trails.
Red River Economic Development Project Manager Dave Adkisson said the $2.4 million purchase of property offers three years to secure a developer. “COVID has been a setback and so by this group stepping in to buy the property and giving RRED the exclusive right to market the property. They, then in effect, bought three years to find the right developer for an environmentally friendly resort,” said Adkisson.
Bank President Elmer Whitaker, who is a part of the Red River Property Holding Group, noted the project offers much in bringing outside dollars to the region and building up the economy. Whitaker believes the current COVID related interest in outdoor activities makes this project more attractive. “You know the cabin owners, the hotels, the restaurants, everybody did well because of the people trying to explore and find remote areas to enjoy. I think that’s a great selling point because I think it was just a glimpse into what the future could be,” said Whitaker.
There have been concerns expressed about how such a commercial development might change and impact the Red River Gorge area. Whitaker said such a project could someday lead to a national park designation, which would provide additional environmental protections.
Here's a conversation with Dave Adkisson and Elmer Whitaker on Wed, March 31st:
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