ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Final unofficial results show more than 159,778 people voted in Buncombe County, with 32,338 of those casting ballots in person on Election Day. Buncombe County had a 74 percent voter turnout this election year, according to the State Board of Elections.
More than candidates were on the ballot. Asheville voters passed bond referendums totaling $80 million for improvements to parks and recreation, transportation, public safety facilities and affordable housing.
“As our community continues to recover from the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene, the city of Asheville is committed to maximizing available resources to enhance recovery efforts, rebuild critical infrastructure and ensure long-term resiliency. 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,” officials said in a news release.
The general obligation bonds will be used to fund projects in the following categories and the following amounts:
Parks & Recreation Improvements – $20 million
- Improvements to existing community centers, parks, outdoor sports courts, playgrounds, ball field lighting, pools, and landscaping throughout the city.
Transportation – $20 million
- Road improvements and resurfacing across the city
- Sidewalk improvements and new sidewalk projects
- Pedestrian improvements including accessible crossings and traffic calming
- Greenway/Multi-use path design and construction
Public Safety Facilities – $20 million
- Maintenance and improvements to existing fire, police,and supporting facilities
- Land acquisition for new and updated facilities
Affordable Housing – $20 million
- Make investments in affordable homes
- Provide down payment assistance to home buyers
- Purchase land and existing homes for future affordable housing
To follow along with the 2024 bond project development and implementation, click here.