Tourism continues to be a major economic driver in Walker County. New data from Tourism Economics and the Georgia Department of Economic Development shows visitors spent 54-point-one million dollars in Walker County during 2025. That’s a four-point-three percent increase over 2024, with every major tourism sector recording growth. The largest increase came in lodging. Tourism supported 462 jobs in Walker County last year and generated 3-point-eight million dollars in state and local tax revenue. Officials say without those tourism dollars, the average Walker County household would pay about 143 dollars more in taxes each year. Rock City, McLemore Resort and other local attractions continue drawing visitors from across the country and around the world.
Four felony arrests in Walker County on Tuesday. Among those arrested include 46-year-old Brandy Michelle Jackson on felony fraud charges. Trevor Lebon Harris, 29-years-old, was arrested on violation of probation. 53-year-old Willie Lee Edwards was booked on aggravated assault, kidnapping and false imprisonment. You can view the entire arrest report on our wesbsite at DiscoverWalker.com. The arrest reports are posted there daily.
The redevelopment of the historic Crystal Springs Mill site is moving forward, and Chickamauga residents are being asked to share their ideas. With grant support from the Georgia Department of Agriculture and Georgia’s Rural Center, organizers are working with the Georgia Conservancy to develop a master plan for the property. A public input session was held October sixth, and smaller focus groups are meeting this week. Residents can also share their thoughts through an online survey at SurveyMonkey dot com, using the link for Crystal Springs Mill. You can find a link to the survey on the City of Chickamauga Facebook page.
Summerville will stop collecting fire service fees beginning Saturday. This is following a recent ruling by the Georgia Supreme Court. City officials say the decision came after consulting with their attorney and reviewing guidance from the Georgia Municipal Association. The city says there will be no reduction in fire protection services. Officials are now looking at other ways to fund the fire department while complying with state law.
The Museum of LaFayette is inviting the community to explore a new exhibit examining the history of the Cherokee in Walker County and the surrounding region. The exhibit explores Cherokee life, the impact of European contact, forced removal, and the continuing story of the Cherokee people today. A central focus is Fort Cumming in LaFayette, where Cherokee families were detained in 1838 before being forced from their homeland. The museum also features a recreated schoolroom from the Chattooga Academy. The Museum of LaFayette is open Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 306 North Main Street in LaFayette.
The LaFayette Lady Ramblers’ volleyball season came to an end Wednesday with a heartbreaking five-set loss to Morgan County in the state semifinals. LaFayette dropped the first two sets, but rallied to win the next two, forcing a deciding fifth set. Morgan County pulled out the victory, 17-15, to advance to the state championship. The Lady Ramblers entered the Final Four as the top seed in the GHSA Class Triple-A tournament, capping an outstanding season for LaFayette.