Exciting Developments in Asheville: Construction Begins on Swannanoa River Greenway

Exciting Developments in Asheville: Construction Starts on Swannanoa River Greenway

Asheville is buzzing with excitement as construction officially kicks off on the much-anticipated Swannanoa River Greenway, a project that promises to reshape our community for the better! This greenway, funded by a bond that voters took to heart back in 2016, is set to offer residents and visitors alike a lovely, accessible place to walk, jog, or bike along the beautiful banks of the Swannanoa River.

A Community Investment to Remember

Lucy Crown, the Transportation Planning Manager, recently shared her enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a “significant investment in the future of our community.” This first phase of the greenway is not just about providing a pathway; it’s about connecting people to a growing number of breweries and eateries that have sprouted up along the river. “People love to have a destination to go to on a greenway,” Lucy noted, and who can blame them?

Details of the Greenway’s Route

The inaugural segment will be a paved pathway stretching about one mile, cleverly linking up with an existing path at Riverbend Park. From there, it will wind its way westward along the southern bank of the Swannanoa River. Adventurers can expect to glide beneath I-240 and Tunnel Road, with the path ending at the intersection of Glendale Avenue and Thompson Street. How cool is that?

What to Expect During Construction

While the excitement is palpable, residents should also gear up for the construction journey. The work on this first segment is anticipated to wrap up by late 2025, which means we have about a year of construction ahead of us. It’s all part of the plan to enhance Asheville’s livability and accessibility.

More to Come: Future Segments on the Horizon

But wait, there’s more! The Swannanoa River Greenway is just the beginning. Once completed, the entire project will stretch a total of 7.5 miles. Future segments are already in the pipeline, planned to extend both east and west. To the east, the path will reach Azalea Road and Tunnel Road, while to the west, it will connect to the vibrant River Arts District and the greenway network in West Asheville. Wow, the potential for exploration is endless!

Connecting to the Bigger Picture

This greenway project isn’t just a standalone endeavor. It’s part of the ambitious 100-mile Fonta Flora State Trail, which will eventually link Morganton to Asheville, creating a broader network for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Talk about paving the way for adventure!

Community Excitement and Participation

As Asheville gets ready for this transformative project, community members are encouraged to get involved and share their thoughts. Lucy emphasized how important it is to hear from residents, as their feedback can guide future plans. Whether you’re an avid cyclist, a casual walker, or someone who simply enjoys the outdoors, this greenway represents a chance to enhance your experience of our beloved city.

So, as we say goodbye to bare patches of earth and hello to the promise of greenery and connection, let’s keep our fingers crossed for good weather and a smooth construction process. Remember, folks, periods of rain are in the forecast, bringing the potential for heavy rainfall and gusty winds. But don’t let that dampen your spirits! After all, great things are coming to Asheville, and we can’t wait to see how the Swannanoa River Greenway unfolds.