ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The city of Asheville is seeking public feedback on a draft recovery plan developed in response to the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Helene last year.
The Helene Recovery Plan outlines 114 projects across Buncombe County, including 31 in Asheville, to rebuild housing, repair infrastructure, restore natural resources, strengthen disaster preparedness and support long-term community resilience. The plan also includes projects in Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Montreat, Weaverville, Woodfin and unincorporated areas of the county.
Community members can review and comment on the draft plan here through Oct. 3.
More than 2,600 people participated in shaping the plan during its initial input phase, which included online forums and 28 in-person events across 13 ZIP codes. Feedback from the city’s Helene Recovery Priorities initiative and CDBG-DR Action Plan was also incorporated.
Top recovery priorities identified by participants included:
- Investing in infrastructure such as water systems, roads, bridges and telecommunications (74%)
- Disaster preparedness and resiliency efforts (55%)
- Wildfire prevention (53%)
- Floodplain management (49%)
- Streambank restoration (48%)
- Rebuilding parks (47%)
Residents also emphasized the need for inclusive, climate-resilient recovery strategies, support for vulnerable populations and economic diversification.
The Asheville City Council is expected to consider action on the draft plan later this year.
For more information or to sign up for updates, click here.
