Middlesboro Trace District Area Wide Plan

The plan investigates opportunities for reimagining ways in which the city can capitalize on the history and natural beauty of Cumberland mountains that surround it. Middlesboro sits at the foot of the Cumberland Gap, known as the “Gateway to the West,” and the plan explores cultural, and recreational opportunities that can help the city capitalize on this prime location. The plan lays out a framework for economic revitalization and resilience focused on built infrastructure and industrial diversification. The plan gives recommendations for short-term, mid-term, and long-term development goals and objectives for public and private investment of various development scenarios and design interventions. These infrastructure investments range from basic and simple to substantial and complex and focus on capitalizing on the area’s significant recreation tourism potential.