Let me chime in here....
1) When did Dollywood open Wilderness Pass?
2) If its an area they will add ride/attraction(s) to make it worth going into that area.
3) I'm not 100 % sure but I'd say a Dark ride is needed and also a new water ride due to the fact Dollywood only has three wet rides (after the removal of RiverBattle) there ALL down at the bottom half of the park.
4) Lastly I heard a theme for a new area was being talked about but I believe there was more than one concept for the themed area. Also I read that Sally Corp. And Herschend was talking too!