At its August 26 meeting, the Asheville City Council approved a series of measures aimed at supporting ongoing recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene. The agenda included actions related to water infrastructure, roadways, parks, disaster funding, and operational needs.
Among the items approved was a contract for engineering design services for the North Fork Transmission Main No 3 project. This initiative is intended to reduce risks of system outages from natural disasters and increase redundancy in the city’s water distribution network. Interim Water Resources Director Bill Hart said, “Planning and designing a new main transmission line from North Fork, routed at a higher elevation and further away from a restricted river corridor, will serve the Asheville community to reduce water system vulnerabilities to future flooding events.”
The council also moved forward with an assessment of streetlight damage in Biltmore Village caused by Helene. City Traffic Engineer Christopher Cairns noted the collaboration between city staff, business owners, and Duke Energy on temporary lighting solutions after the storm: “This Council approval allows us to enter the next necessary phase of assessment, as we work towards the ultimate goal of full restoration of damaged infrastructure in the area.”
In addition, a contract was awarded to Sasaki Associates, Inc. for design and engineering services related to rebuilding five miles of French Broad Riverfront parks. D. Tyrell McGirt, Parks & Recreation Director, stated: “Parks and greenways along the French Broad River are central focal points of the Asheville Parks & Recreation system and a vital public space for recreation and connection… We are committed to an inclusive and collaborative process, and we look forward to working with the community to shape the future of this beloved area.”
Council members also approved an agreement with NCDOT for construction of a temporary bridge near Gashes Creek Bridge after it suffered severe damage during Helene. Public Works Director Amy Deyton commented on interagency cooperation: “This effort would not be possible without the continued collaborative relationship between the City and NCDOT… We’re grateful for their generous assistance with the design and construction of the temporary bridge.”
For disaster recovery funding management, Tetra Tech Inc. was selected as consultant for implementation services related to $225 million in CDBG-DR funds allocated to Asheville. An internal audit contract was also approved as required by HUD regulations.
Finance Director Tony McDowell reported that previous budget amendments totaling $22.8 million have nearly been exhausted due to expenses from response efforts and consulting contracts. He explained: “Spending authority from these prior Helene-related budget amendments is nearing full utilization and additional budget is needed… Staff is recommending that Council amend the Helene-related budget by $6.0M to fund upcoming expenses including a temporary bridge for Gashes Greek [sic] and Hardesty Lane as well as labor expenses related to FEMA projects.”
Council authorized an application for up to $1 million from North Carolina’s Small Business Infrastructure Grant program targeting restoration projects in Biltmore Village Historic District. Recovery Coordinator Bridget Herring said: “Grants funding of this nature could be applied to eligible projects such as sidewalk repair, curbing, street lights, and/or street trees and landscaping.”
Other actions included approval for rental vehicles so Parks & Recreation can maintain operations while awaiting permanent replacements lost during Helene’s impact. Assistant Director Pete Wall said: “The approval of this contract is a crucial step forward in our continued recovery efforts… It ensures our department has the necessary resources to maintain our beautiful city parks…”
Finally, council established four new boards dedicated specifically to Helene Recovery initiatives alongside adjustments in advisory board structure during recovery operations. Assistant City Manager Ben Woody remarked: “The creation of these Helene Recovery boards provides a clear structure for collaboration, transparency, and community engagement as we move through recovery…”
These decisions are part of ongoing efforts by Asheville officials following significant damage caused by Tropical Storm Helene across multiple sectors.
