Asheville Reporter

The City of Asheville has faced significant challenges in 2024, including an estimated $1 billion in damage to city-owned property and assets due to Tropical Storm Helene. The storm caused extensive damage to parks, streets, buildings, utilities, and other vital infrastructure. Rebuilding efforts are underway with the assistance of federal and state funding.

Despite these setbacks, Asheville made notable progress on various infrastructure projects in 2024. Completed projects include the Bent Tree and Crestwood Roads Slide Repair and Stabilization, Carrier Park Playground Replacement, Downtown Public Restroom, Municipal Golf Course Stormwater Improvements, Murphy-Oakley All Abilities Park Playground Replacement, Memorial Stadium Improvements – Phase 2, New Leicester Highway Sidewalk, Onteora Boulevard Sidewalk, Parking Garage Immediate Priority Repairs and Accessibility Improvements, W. Patton Avenue Waterline Replacement, Shiloh Area Sidewalk Improvements, Stephens Lee Community Center Restroom Renovations, Vance Monument Removal, Vermont Avenue Pedestrian Improvements, and 43 Wall Street Renovations.

Additionally, construction began on several new projects such as Greenway Connectors and McCormick Field. The Swannanoa River Greenway was significantly impacted by Helene but remains a focus for ongoing development.

Water service was restored after a major effort involving city staff and local contractors who reconnected a crucial 36-inch bypass water main in just ten days following the storm's devastation. This rapid response allowed water distribution from the North Fork Reservoir to resume much sooner than expected.

Public Works crews cleared approximately 2,000 trees from roadways immediately after the storm. Voters also approved $80 million in General Obligation Bonds to fund improvements in affordable housing, transportation infrastructure, public safety facilities, and parks.

Looking ahead to 2025, Asheville plans to continue its strategic approach towards project development while addressing storm recovery needs. New capital projects set for construction include Airport Road Sidewalk and Burton Street Community Center Playground Improvements among others.

Efforts are also being made to leverage Affordable Housing Bond funding to increase housing availability within the community. Cost recovery through FEMA’s Public Assistance program will be critical for rebuilding efforts.

Asheville remains committed to maintaining transparency with residents about project developments through platforms like the Capital Projects Spending Dashboard and engagement opportunities via the Asheville Recovers Engagement Hub.