Asheville Community Updates: City Offices Open, ART Bus Services Resume, and More!

Asheville’s Community Updates: What You Need to Know!

Hello, Asheville! We’ve got a bundle of important local news and updates for you, so grab a cup of coffee and settle in as we break it all down in a friendly, easy-to-understand way.

City Offices Open to the Public

First things first, City offices are officially open to the public. If you need assistance or wish to engage with local officials, feel free to swing by. However, remember that burning yard waste, leaves, and debris is not allowed within city limits. This is due to various safety concerns, so let’s keep our community safe and pleasant!

Daily News Briefings

For those wanting the latest updates straight from city officials, news briefings are held every weekday at 11 a.m. Just a heads up though, there won’t be a briefing today, November 5, since it’s Election Day. You can catch these briefings streamed live on Facebook or listen on Blue Ridge Public Radio.

ART Bus Services Resume

Looking for a ride? The ART bus service has resumed its regular hours for most routes. The N2, 170, and WE1 Eastbound routes are back but with some modifications. Here’s the good news: bus rides are still free for everyone until further notice! So, hop on board and enjoy the ride!

Parks and Recreation: Community Centers Reopening

Great news, everyone! Asheville Park and Recreation Community Centers will be reopening tomorrow, November 6. This means you can again enjoy outdoor spaces like playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. However, please note that most of the regularly scheduled programs and events are currently on hold. It’s best to check with each center for details about organized activities.

Free Parking in City Garages

If you’re planning to visit downtown Asheville, you’ll be pleased to learn that all city garages and on-street parking spaces are currently free. However, if you need long-term parking, please utilize one of the city garages. This helps keep on-street spots available for those who just need to pop in briefly. Remember, accessible parking spaces should only be used by those with a valid placard!

Food and Water Distribution

Many in our community still need essential supplies. Food, bottled water, and bulk water for flushing purposes are being distributed at various locations across the area. Be sure to bring your own containers for bulk water. You can find the distribution times and locations on the city’s website.

Storm Debris Management and Collection

After the recent storms, the city is actively removing storm debris for everyone’s safety. Remember, the longer debris hangs around, the more it poses fire and safety hazards. Temporary sites are being set up for debris processing, and these sites are under close watch to comply with safety regulations.

Water Utility Service Updates

As for our water utility services, we’re glad to report that 99 percent of customers now have non-potable water restored. However, please remember that all city water customers are under a Boil Water Notice. This means you should boil your water for at least one minute before consuming it. It’s perfectly safe for washing and flushing, but let’s play it safe when it comes to consumption.

Community Care Stations

Lastly, Community Care Stations have been established across Buncombe County! Operating daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., these stations offer hot showers, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, bathrooms, and meals—all free of charge! Just remember to bring your own towels and toiletries for showers.

That wraps up today’s updates! Asheville, stay safe, stay informed, and as always, let’s look out for one another. You’ve got this!