ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Efforts are continuing to revive a proposed Costco development in the Enka-Candler area after the project was withdrawn from the city’s review process earlier this month.
Asheville City Council member Bo Hess said in a Facebook post Tuesday night that he recently spoke with Costco representatives and is working with local and state leaders to bring the company back to the negotiating table.
“It’s not over yet, Asheville. I’ve sent a letter to the Governor, the Mayor is engaged in these conversations, and we now have state-level support helping us push this forward,” Hess wrote.
A city official confirmed Feb. 19 that the proposed development had been withdrawn from review. According to a statement provided to city officials, the applicant cited increased scope, timeline and anticipated costs because of required on-site and off-site improvements.
Hess said he is working with council members Kim Roney Ullman and Sage Turner and Mayor Esther Manheimer to explore potential solutions, including addressing infrastructure needs on Smokey Park Highway to make the project feasible. He also said state Rep. Tim Moffitt is assisting at the state level.
The proposal called for a 160,000-square-foot warehouse, a 32-pump fuel station and a tire center at Enka Commerce Park. The development would have occupied about 39.6 acres at 264 and 274 Enka Heritage Parkway and 1455 Sand Hill Road.
Hess said the project represents potential jobs, increased competition, tax revenue and economic opportunity for Asheville residents, adding that discussions are ongoing.