The Chattanooga Tourism Co. is touting a World Rally Championship race next year as potentially the biggest sporting event ever in the region.
But in Polk County, where most of the short-wheelbase car racing will happen on the gravel roads in the Cherokee National Forest, some residents and county commissioners are objecting to such an event.
“The idea reveals the worst kind of disrespect for Polk County residents, the forest environment, quality of life and nature in general,” Polk County resident Brian McCord said in an emailed statement to the Chattanooga Times Free Press. “The arrogant idea to draw the financial gain and attention to Chattanooga, with some scraps leftover for Polk County, only to be overwhelmed with the excessive noise and air pollution, and terrified wildlife” is offensive.
McCord has launched an online petition against the event, which has already attracted more than 120 supporters.
“All who enjoy the natural wonders of this national treasure will be victimized by the roar of engines, the screeching of tires, and the aftermath of damaged roads and trails through our beloved forest, all in the name of entertainment,” the petition on Change.org said.