Woodfin Works to Bounce Back After Tropical Storm Helene
In the charming town of Woodfin, located near the banks of the beautiful French Broad River, there’s a sense of resilience in the air following the recent impact of Tropical Storm Helene. The community is particularly focused on the construction of the highly anticipated Taylor’s Wave, a key feature in Woodfin’s extensive $34 million Greenway and Blueway system. This project is designed to enhance local parks, greenways, and waterways, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
What Happened During the Storm
Fortunately, the under-construction Taylor’s Wave sustained only minimal damage from the storm, but the heavy rain and rising water levels have caused a delay in construction. Shannon Tuch, the town manager, expressed relief that the damage was minimal, with the primary concern being the timing of the construction. “As Helene approached, the contractor [Contractor Charles Baker Grading & Landscaping] … got their equipment out so we didn’t lose anything in terms of materials,” Tuch explained. The cofferdam, a temporary enclosure created to keep the site dry, “survived remarkably well” according to Tuch, which is a silver lining amid the challenges posed by the storm.
New Timelines and Challenges
Originally, the town expected to complete both the Taylor’s Wave and the adjacent expansion of Riverside Park in the spring or summer of 2025. However, following the storm, the timeline has shifted, with potential completion being pushed to as late as spring 2026. Construction on the wave is set to resume in the spring, but there are still some unknown factors at play.
One such factor is the rise in the river’s water level observed after the storm. Tuch noted, “The water level downstream of the site is running about 5 inches higher than normal.” This increase raises concerns that the flooding might have altered the riverbed’s shape, which could necessitate modifications to the wave’s original design. “Our engineers are investigating the potential causes for changes in the water levels,” she added. One possible culprit could be the Metropolitan Sewerage District dam, which has been out of operation since the storm.
Next Steps for Woodfin
While waiting for conditions on the river to stabilize, Woodfin is looking at whether the contractor can start doing some work onshore, specifically on the Riverside Park expansion. This site, which was formerly a landfill, requires significant cleanup, including the removal of 26,000 cubic yards of construction debris. Tuch stated, “Removing the landfill was always a beneficial piece to this project, so we’re just looking to do that work sooner rather than later.” This proactive approach not only keeps the project moving forward but also addresses environmental concerns.
Community Sentiment
The response from the Woodfin community has been one of understanding, as residents recognize that weather events like Tropical Storm Helene can be unpredictable. Despite the delay, many are excited about the future enhancements to the park and waterway system, which promises to offer recreational opportunities such as kayaking and river surfing.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Woodfin navigates the aftermath of the storm and the ensuing adjustments to the project timeline, there’s a palpable sense of optimism. The Greenway and Blueway system not only aims to beautify the town but also enhance the quality of life for its residents. With careful planning and adaptation, the community is on track to create a stunning natural resource that will serve future generations.
