ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville residents, business owners and community members will have a chance next week to help shape plans for restoring streetscapes in Biltmore Village following damage from Tropical Storm Helene.
The city will host a drop-in public input session from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 22, at Standard Pizza, 755 Biltmore Ave. The meeting is part of the next phase of a streetscape restoration project funded through the North Carolina Department of Commerce’s Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program.
The project is designed to repair infrastructure damaged by Tropical Storm Helene while improving pedestrian safety and accessibility in Biltmore Village, one of Asheville’s historic commercial districts and the gateway to the Biltmore Estate.
City officials said the project will focus on restoring public spaces while preserving the area’s historic character and supporting local businesses as they continue recovering from the storm.
“Rebuilding after Tropical Storm Helene is about more than just repairing infrastructure — it’s about intentional recovery,” Capital and Asset Management Director Walter Ear said in a statement. “With this project, our intention is to honor Biltmore Village’s historic past, make it accessible for everyone and give our local business owners the support they need in order to recover.”
Attendees will be able to review project information, ask questions and provide feedback that will help shape the final design. Parking will be available on-site, and the city will provide light refreshments and children’s activities.
An online feedback opportunity will also be available beginning July 22 for those unable to attend in person.
The restoration project includes improvements along three key corridors:
- Biltmore Plaza/Kitchin Place
- Boston Way
- Swan Street
The design phase is expected to wrap up this fall, with construction targeted to begin in early 2027.
