Lisa Bottomley on the Past, Present, and Future of the Blue Ridge Parkway

Lisa Bottomley is the executive director of the Blue Ridge Parkway Association, a nonprofit made up of local businesses, communities, and individuals that has been promoting America’s Favorite Drive for 75 years.A native of North Carolina’s Alleghany County, Lisa grew up with the Parkway playing a supporting role in her life. Her father helped build portions of the road, and years later she got engaged at Doughton Park. Since 2023, she has served as executive director of the Blue Ridge Parkway Association, which acts as the official marketing partner of the Parkway.In this episode, Lisa talks about her personal connection to the Parkway and how it eventually became a professional one, the impact of Hurricane Helene on the Parkway and surrounding communities, and how visitors can begin planning a trip along the Parkway today.Blue Ridge Parkway Associationblueridgeparkway.orgTheme MusicThe song "Goa" was written by Lyndsay Pruett and performed by the Jon Stickley Trio.