Asheville Reporter

The City of Asheville has announced that heavy rains from Hurricane Helene are impacting local transit routes and Parks and Recreation facilities. Due to a road closure on Lodge Street, detours are now in place for Asheville Rapid Transit (ART) Routes S1 and S5. Bus stops along Lodge Street, Sweeten Creek Road, and London Road will be missed until further notice.

Passengers at the regular stops may board inbound buses at the following locations:

- Route S1 & S5: Bus Stop 651 on Biltmore Avenue near Bryson Street

- Route S1: Bus Stop 641 on White Avenue near W. Chapel Road

- Route S5: Bus Stop 137 on Fairview Road at The District

Additionally, all Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) parks, community centers, and facilities will be closed on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27 due to inclement weather. All previously scheduled activities, events, programs, and rentals during this time have been canceled.

City officials have stated they will continue to monitor weather conditions and announce any schedule changes as they become available.

The City of Asheville is preparing for significant weather impacts from Tropical Storm Helene. Staff across various departments are working to ensure the city is ready for the expected rain and wind. "Asheville Fire is proactively preparing for major weather impacts by activating specialty teams," said a city spokesperson. These teams include boat teams, saw teams, team leaders, safety officers, battalion chiefs, and division chiefs who will respond to storm-related emergencies.

Stormwater crews are inspecting construction sites for ongoing projects, clearing debris from flood-prone areas, testing equipment in preparation for restoration efforts, and clearing storm drain grates.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), Asheville can expect 10 to 15 inches of rain with potential flash or localized flooding. Updates can be followed on the NWS website.

Residents are advised to stay calm and prepared by developing an emergency plan and creating an emergency kit. Recommended supplies include fresh water, non-perishable food items, fuel for vehicles, battery-operated flashlights and radios or internet access that does not rely on electricity.

For safety reasons during potential flash floods or fast-moving storm waters: "Turn Around Don’t Drown."

During storm-related emergencies, the Asheville Fire Department will coordinate action plans. For immediate updates regarding city services or emergency alerts sign up for AVL Alerts or follow the City of Asheville's social media accounts.

The following Parks & Recreation parking lots were closed starting Wednesday:

- Amboy Riverfront Park

- Azalea Park

- Azalea Dog Park

- Carrier Park

- Craven Street Bridge Boat Access Area

- French Broad River Park

- French Broad River Dog Park

- Jean Webb Park

- Pearson Bridge River Access Area

- Recreation Park

- Riverbend Park

Sanitation services will run as scheduled; however normal brush collection routes may experience delays due to emergency operations assistance needs.

Currently there are no disruptions to ART schedules but any delays or route changes will be communicated through iRide and Transit apps.

Several events have been impacted including:

- Block Party Career Fair scheduled for September 26 has been canceled.

- AFD Fire Prevention Kick-off event at the outlets on September 28 has been canceled.

Aston Park Tennis Center and Municipal Golf Course remain open until further notice depending on weather conditions; patrons should call ahead to confirm status before visiting.