PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood announced a new partnership -- and park officials said change is in the works.
On Wednesday, the park named Covenant Health as the official health system of Dollywood. Park officials said the multi-year agreement includes upgrades to the park’s Baby Care Facilities, Nursing Centers and Calming Room.
The park's Calming Room opened in 2016. Park officials said it was designed to give children with autism a soothing space to avoid sensory overload.
Dollywood's ride accessibility coordinator, Judy Toth, created the original calming room with color schemes, blankets, and toys meant to help people with autism.
"To me, the parents are heroes, bringing their children here to Dollywood knowing that they could be over stimulated by the sounds, by the sights." Toth told 10News in 2016.
Park officials said the room will be upgraded with new activities and equipment.
You might also see some changes in Dollywood's main outdoor areas. Park officials said Covenant will install hand sanitizing stations and health tip signs across the park.
The agreement extends to Dollywood’s Splash Country. Dollywood officials said many of Covenant's initiatives will apply to both parks.
Covenant will also become a sponsor of several Dollywood events and park amenities.