Asheville Faces Flood Recovery Challenges with Spirit and Resilience
Good afternoon, everyone! Today, I’m reaching out from the beautiful city of Asheville, where excitement usually fills the brisk air during fall weekends. Normally, this time of year brings laughter, tourists, and a wealth of festivities. However, the mood here this season is a bit different, as the aftermath of last month’s devastating flooding looms over our beloved Western North Carolina.
As we step into Saturday, with its bright sunshine and crisp leaves, it’s hard to ignore the challenges that many local business owners are grappling with. Just two weeks ago, the region was hit hard by flooding, and folks in town are still figuring out their next steps toward recovery.
On Friday, Governor Roy Cooper visited several businesses in Transylvania County, including a cozy fish camp restaurant! The owners there sadly shared that they likely won’t be able to open their doors until the Christmas holidays. Governor Cooper expressed a desire to work closely with both the state legislature and Congress to establish a grant program for small businesses to assist in the rebuilding process, asserting that these businesses are truly the backbone of the Western North Carolina economy.
Reopening the Doors
While some businesses face uncertain futures, others are gradually swinging their doors back open. In Haywood County, enthusiastic leaders are busy spreading the word about which local shops and restaurants are back in business. The county even posted a comprehensive list on its Visit Haywood website, letting everyone know which places can happily accept credit cards. And in the charming town of Blowing Rock, businesses eagerly announced on social media that they were ready to welcome returning guests, complete with safe travel routes for tourists.
Meanwhile, the annual October Arts & Crafts Festival is set to kick off next weekend in Maggie Valley. The town is excited to open its arms to visitors but reminds everyone to lock in hotel reservations ahead of time, as many rooms are occupied by emergency workers or displaced residents.
A Sip of Hope
This week brought some good news, as water started flowing again through the city’s pipes after a prolonged absence. Thanks to the dedicated crew from Asheville’s water department, a 36-inch bypass was activated, restoring water supplies throughout the county. However, a boil water notice is currently in effect, so residents are still advised to stick to bottled water for drinking and cooking. A small step, but a significant one!
Coming Together for the Community
This past week, school leaders have been busy forming plans on how to safely reopen schools in the Asheville and Buncombe County districts. They’re considering installing large donated water tanks as a quick-fix for the current struggles with getting potable water on campuses. The aim is to have buildings ready to welcome back students by October 28th, although uncertainty lingers for some.
Unfortunately, many locals are feeling the financial strain stemming from Hurricane Helene, with over 14,000 residents filing for disaster-related unemployment. However, this support caps at just $350 per week, leaving many grappling to make ends meet.
A Glimpse into the Past
On a poignant note, two sisters are working tirelessly to salvage their grandmother’s home in Bat Cave, which experienced severe damage from the floods. They uncovered a letter their grandmother penned 108 years ago recounting similar devastating floods in 1916. The words echoed the distress and chaos they now face: “We made our escape through the kitchen, all ran out through the rain…”
Community Support Still Strong
Despite the obstacles, there’s a beautiful spirit in the air. Many organizations are rallying in support, tirelessly working to deliver food, water, and necessary supplies to those in need. The community is banding together to lend a helping hand, ensuring that no one is left behind as we navigate this challenging time.
As we bask in the warmth of the fall sun here in Asheville, let’s remember that although times may be tough, the heart of this community beats stronger than ever. Together, we can help our beautiful region blossom once again.
