ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville has completed debris removal at Riverside Cemetery as part of the ongoing restoration efforts following Hurricane Helene.

Riverside Cemetery will return to its regular hours of operation from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., seven days a week, beginning Monday, Aug. 18.

City staff will continue to keep an eye on Riverside, providing additional restoration as needed, such as replanting grass in places where there were rootball disturbances.

Restoring Riverside

“We are grateful for the community’s patience and understanding during this final phase of debris removal, which began on July 22 and involved careful removal to protect gravesites and ensure safety,” wrote Jessica Hughes, city communications specialist, in a press release.

“Completing this work marks a critical milestone in restoring one of Asheville’s historic and culturally significant spaces,” added Asheville Parks & Recreation Director D. Tyrell McGirt. “We appreciate the community’s patience and support as we worked to preserve this landmark for generations to come.”

For more information about visiting Riverside Cemetery, visit www.ashevillenc.gov/locations/riverside-cemetery.

Want to learn about those buried at Riverside Cemetery? Check out our Tombstone Tales series.