Creating a Resilient Asheville
A proactive step in recovery efforts from Tropical Storm Helene.
“We have an unprecedented opportunity to rebuild Asheville in a way that’s better than ever before.” ~ Mayor Esther Manheimer
A panel of national land use and economic development experts delivered comprehensive recommendations Friday, August 1, 2025, for rebuilding Asheville stronger and more resilient following Tropical Storm Helene’s devastating impact last September.
Mayor Manheimer noted the city has unprecedented funding available for recovery: FEMA rebuilding funds with state match, plus $225 million in Community Development Block Grant disaster recovery funds on top of the city’s $260 million annual budget.
Urban Land Institute Report, August 1, 2025.
The Urban Land Institute (ULI) advisory panel spent a week analyzing the city’s recovery needs, then presented strategies spanning physical infrastructure, economic diversification, and organizational reform during a public forum at the Harrah’s Cherokee Center.
The ULI panel of experts focused on making commercial districts more resilient to flooding, building a stronger workforce, and rethinking land use in floodplains. A final report will be published on ashevillerecovers.org later this year.
Read the full story at 828newsnow.com/news/228822-panel-suggests-river-arts-district-be-relocated.
