 Prior to the creation of the dam, those who owned land that was taken by the TVA were promised that there would be a road built to access to above water cemeteries and homesites, as well as to stimulate economic development in the region.These promises resulted in a 1943 agreement which was signed by the TVA, Department of Interior, Swain County, and the State of North Carolina which stipulated that the road be constructed "if and when monies are appropriated".This new road would be built along the North Shore, connecting Bryson City with US-129 just beyond Fontana Dam.