ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The city of Asheville has announced street closures and service updates ahead of the Independence Day Block Party in the South Slope district, scheduled for Friday, July 4.

The annual celebration will feature live music, food, family activities and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Event festivities are scheduled from 5-10 p.m., though street closures begin earlier in the day to accommodate the event.

Street closures

9 a.m. to midnight:

  • Coxe Avenue (Hilliard Avenue to Millard Avenue)
  • Banks Avenue (Coxe Avenue to Church Street)
  • Buxton Avenue (Coxe Avenue to Millard Avenue)
  • Federal Alley
  • Collier Avenue

5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

  • Asheland Avenue (Hilliard Avenue to Southside Avenue)

City officials advise drivers to plan ahead and expect increased foot traffic in the downtown area.

City services and facility hours

All city of Asheville offices and administrative services will be closed on July 4 in observance of the holiday.

Parks and Recreation

  • Most parks and greenways remain open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. However, Azalea, Carrier (west side), French Broad River, Recreation and Richmond Hill parks will remain closed because of  post-Tropical Storm Helene damage. The French Broad River Greenway through French Broad River Park is also closed.
  • All community centers and their offices will be closed. However, outdoor features such as playgrounds and sports courts adjacent to community centers will be open.
  • Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Pool: Open 10 a.m.-7 p.m., $3 admission
  • Splasheville in Pack Square Park: Open 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m.
  • Montford Park Players: Opening night of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Hazel Robinson Amphitheater at 7:30 p.m.

Community and regional facilities

  • Harrah’s Cherokee Center – Asheville: Closed
  • Asheville Municipal Golf Course (back nine): Open
  • WNC Nature Center: Open
  • Aston Park Tennis Center: Open

Transit

Asheville Rides Transit (ART) will operate on a Sunday schedule. Riders can check schedules at ashevillenc.gov/transit or visit the ART Transit Center at 49 Coxe Ave.

Sanitation

Trash, recycling, and brush collection will follow a normal Monday-Thursday schedule. Residents can use the AVLcollects app or visit ashevillenc.gov/AVLcollects for reminders and alerts.

Water

Water Resources staff will be available 24/7 for water-related emergencies. Customers can call 828-251-1122 to report issues.

Emergency Services

Police, fire, and emergency services will operate as usual, with 24-hour coverage.

For additional event information and service updates, visit ashevillenc.gov.