ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The Asheville City Council took action on several recovery-related projects at its Oct. 14 meeting, continuing efforts to restore the city following the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene. Council members approved initiatives spanning housing, economic development, infrastructure and community resources.
Housing and economic recovery
Council unanimously approved an agreement with the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Division of Community Revitalization to provide repair and reconstruction for homeowners affected by Helene. The move will make the state’s RenewNC Homeowner Repair and Reconstruction Program fully accessible to qualifying Asheville residents.
“The City of Asheville is excited to partner with the State of North Carolina’s RenewNC program,” Community and Economic Development Director Nikki Reid said in a news release. “This agreement is an effort toward efficiency, collaboration and resilience that will make the RenewNC program fully available to all Asheville homeowners who qualify.”
On economic activation, the council reviewed downtown initiatives, including Open Streets and Event Support Mini-Grants, as well as the Food Truck Fridays pilot program in Pack Square Park. No council action was required on these programs.
A proposed ordinance to expand allowable sound exceedance days for events did not pass the required supermajority and will be reconsidered at the Oct. 28 meeting. Similarly, a pilot program for an event-based downtown Social District in South Slope was continued until Nov. 18.
“In the wake of Helene, staff, council and community partners have worked together to support activities that can help promote business district activity and recovery,” Downtown Planning Manager Dana Frankel said in the release.
Water system enhancements
Council unanimously approved applications for Economic Development Administration grants to support a fourth water treatment plant and an arts and entertainment facility. Interim Water Resources Director Bill Hart said the new facility would enhance the city’s water capacity and resilience.
Community and cultural resources
As part of Helene recovery, council approved the donation of a new playground at Stephens-Lee Community Center, funded through Superior Recreational Products and MAPA Recreation. The tower-style playground will provide children a safe space for recreation and healing.
“This generous donation is a powerful reminder of the support shown to our region by others from around the nation,” Parks & Recreation Director D. Tyrell McGirt said in the news release. “The Stephens-Lee playground will be more than just a safe place to play; it is an essential space for our children and families to reconnect, heal, and find joy on our path to recovery.”
Infrastructure projects
Council approved several infrastructure projects, including the roof replacement for Thomas Wolfe Auditorium and design services for the second phase of Azalea Park improvements. Chris Corl, director of community and regional facilities, said the roof work will allow repairs to interior water damage and improve the visitor experience.
“We are focused on transforming these spaces into a cohesive park that offers seamless connectivity and a unified recreation experience for all residents,” McGirt said regarding Azalea Park.
Full details on the Helene recovery initiatives are available on the city of Asheville’s news page and AshevilleRecovers.org.