Asheville’s Patton Avenue could see major changes with new traffic plan
In November 2023, Asheville residents had the opportunity to voice their opinions on the future of Patton Avenue for the first time. The input received from the community has played a significant role in shaping the plans that were unveiled on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
Public Input Shapes Future Plans
The feedback provided by Asheville residents in November has been instrumental in the development of the proposed changes for Patton Avenue. According to Vaidila Satvika, the Patton Avenue Feasibility Study Project Manager, community input has been crucial in refining the plan for the corridor.
“We take all of this feedback, take it back to our consultants, filter it through, and it helps us to refine the plan and make it better,” Satvika explained.
Proposed Changes
Among the key proposals is a four-to-three conversion, which involves reducing two lanes in each direction to one lane in each direction with a designated turn lane. This transformation aims to create space for bike lanes, promoting alternative transportation methods and enhancing safety for cyclists.
Impact on Local Businesses
The potential modifications along Patton Avenue could have a lasting impact on the businesses in the area. Jan Davis, owner of Jan Davis Tire, expressed approval of the proposed changes, emphasizing the importance of improving accessibility and traffic flow in the corridor.
“This is the last developable corridor in the city. This is a doorstep to the community. I often hear people saying how they don’t want to come downtown anymore. They say it’s awkward getting in and out of town and that they’re not comfortable while they’re here. That really hurts being a downtown business owner,” Davis shared.
Improving Traffic Flow and Safety
Addressing traffic congestion and safety concerns has been a key focus of the project. Davis suggested the installation of a roundabout at Clingman Avenue to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion at traffic lights. Project managers have highlighted that the proposed changes could result in a significant decrease in traffic-related accidents.
“The data shows that these types of changes reduce crashes by 20 to 50%,” Satvika pointed out. “It’s also a way of slowing down traffic downtown and making the walking experience much more pleasurable.”
City Decision Timeline
The City of Asheville is anticipated to reach a decision on the future of the Patton Avenue project by late summer or early fall. The outcome of this decision will have wide-ranging implications for the community, influencing the city’s entrance and overall transportation infrastructure.
As the project progresses, residents and businesses along Patton Avenue eagerly await the final decision on the proposed changes that could redefine the corridor for years to come.
