Asheville Reporter

Asheville voters have approved bond referendums totaling $80 million, aimed at enhancing parks and recreation, transportation, public safety facilities, and affordable housing. The decision comes as the city continues to recover from Tropical Storm Helene. City officials express gratitude to voters for their support.

The funds will be allocated across four main areas: $20 million each for parks and recreation improvements, transportation infrastructure, public safety facilities, and affordable housing.

Projects under parks and recreation will include upgrades to community centers, parks, sports courts, playgrounds, ball field lighting, pools, and landscaping throughout Asheville.

Transportation initiatives will focus on road resurfacing and improvements citywide. Sidewalk enhancements and new projects are planned alongside pedestrian improvements like accessible crossings and traffic calming measures. Greenway or multi-use path design and construction are also included.

Public safety facilities will receive maintenance upgrades with some funds earmarked for land acquisition to develop new or updated fire and police facilities.

Affordable housing investments will involve funding affordable homes, providing down payment assistance to homebuyers, and purchasing land or existing homes for future developments.

Residents can follow the progress of these projects by subscribing to updates on the City of Asheville 2024 Bond web page.

"Thank you City of Asheville voters for approving the 2024 General Obligation Bond Referendums totaling $80 million," a statement read. "The passage of the 2024 Bond Referendums will help fund key prioritized improvements in affordable housing, transportation infrastructure, public safety facilities, and parks and recreation facilities."