At its meeting on September 9, the Asheville City Council approved several items related to ongoing recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. The measures address infrastructure repairs, facility restoration, and city cash flow as part of broader projects aimed at rebuilding areas affected by the storm.
The Council unanimously approved a contract with Olin Partnership Limited for design and engineering services to rebuild the Gashes Creek Bridge and Dam. This work marks the first phase in the Azalea Parks and Infrastructure Recovery Project, which will produce designs and cost estimates for key projects in an area known as “Asheville’s Playground.” The region includes recreational facilities and important transportation infrastructure along Azalea Road and the Swannanoa River.
“Our staff has worked very hard to get this project to this point,” said Walter Ear, Interim Capital Management Director. “Securing this contract is an important first step in our commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing critical infrastructure along the Swannanoa River, and we are ready to get to work.”
Another unanimous vote authorized a contract with Novus Architects for design services at 8 River Arts Place in the River Arts District. Built in 1933 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building serves as a public restroom and leased space. The project will address damage from Helene, with a focus on flood hazard mitigation funded through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program.
“8 River Arts Place is a key public amenity in the River Arts District, and we want to promote its long term viability while protecting its unique character,” said Walter Ear. “This design work will address repair from Helene related damage, and incorporate flood proofing, and flood mitigation strategies to make the building more resilient against future flooding events.”
Council members also approved receipt of $12 million in loan funds from North Carolina’s cashflow loan program for local governments awaiting reimbursements. This is Asheville’s third loan under the program.
“Though these funds cannot offset revenue lost due to Helene, they will improve the City’s cash flow. This funding round is larger than previous ones, as we’ve advanced several projects recently,” explained Finance Director Tony McDowell.
During his report, Assistant Fire Chief Jeremy Knighton commented on ongoing review efforts following Tropical Storm Helene: “Through After-Action Reviews, we transform the stress of complex events into a roadmap for continuous improvement, keeping Asheville strong and resilient.” A full summary of this review will be presented to the Public Safety Committee on September 25.
City staff members were also recognized for receiving a national Telly award for their mini-documentary “Remembering Helene.”
