ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville City Council on Tuesday, Aug. 26, approved a series of measures tied to Tropical Storm Helene recovery, advancing projects that address water, roadways, infrastructure, funding and city operations.
The actions included design work for a new transmission main, contracts for riverfront park restoration and funding to support disaster recovery programs.
Water system
Council approved engineering design services for the proposed North Fork Transmission Main No. 3, a project aimed at reducing the city’s vulnerability to system outages caused by natural disasters. Interim Water Resources Director Bill Hart said the line will be routed at a higher elevation and further from flood-prone areas to strengthen resiliency.
Infrastructure and roads
Council authorized an assessment of storm damage to streetlights, poles and underground utilities in Biltmore Village. City Traffic Engineer Christopher Cairns said the work is key to long-term safety and economic recovery for the area.
Members also approved a design contract for the French Broad Riverfront Parks Recovery Project, which spans about five miles of riverfront. Parks Director D. Tyrell McGirt said the effort will not only rebuild parks but also improve resilience and accessibility.
In addition, the city entered an agreement with the N.C. Department of Transportation to construct a temporary bridge at Gashes Creek, replacing one heavily damaged during Helene.
Federal funding oversight
Council selected Tetra Tech Inc. to provide consulting services for the city’s $225 million allocation in federal disaster recovery funds. Members also approved hiring an internal auditor to ensure financial and programmatic compliance with federal guidelines.
Budget and grants
Council approved a $6 million budget amendment to cover upcoming recovery costs, including temporary bridges and labor tied to FEMA projects. Since the storm, the city has approved nearly $23 million in Helene-related expenses.
The city will also seek up to $1 million from the state’s Small Business Infrastructure Grant fund to help restore public infrastructure in the Biltmore Village Historic District.
Operations and governance
Parks and Recreation will rent vehicles to replace those damaged in the storm while awaiting permanent replacements. Council also established four Helene Recovery boards to coordinate advisory commissions and enhance community involvement.
Assistant City Manager Ben Woody said the new boards will help provide structure, transparency, and collaboration as recovery continues.
