2025.11.12 Woodfin PACE Committee Meeting

Woodfin PACE Committee Meeting Recap: Addressing Bear Concerns, Prioritizing Bicycle Safety, and Advancing Walk Bike Initiatives

The Woodfin PACE Committee held its November 12th meeting, beginning with a lighthearted discussion about the recent spectacular display of the Northern Lights – a memorable start to what proved to be a productive session focused on community safety, infrastructure improvements, and park development. The meeting followed standard procedure with the approval of both the agenda and minutes from the previous October meeting. Notably, there were no public comments submitted for this session.

A significant portion of the discussion centered on addressing increasing bear activity and nuisance issues within Woodfin neighborhoods. Committee members shared concerns about bears accessing trash cans, creating messes and potential safety hazards for residents. Several solutions were explored, including the possibility of the township facilitating access to bear-resistant trash cans and a more immediate, cost-effective solution involving straps for existing trash cans to secure them during pickup. To bolster community education, the committee agreed to reach out to BearWise, a local agency specializing in bear safety and education. Melissa volunteered to initiate contact with BearWise, and the committee will explore developing a mailer for residents detailing bear safety tips ahead of the next bear season.

Beyond addressing immediate concerns, the committee made significant strides in advancing long-term safety initiatives. Adrienne provided an update on "Lenny’s Law," a legislative effort born from the tragic cycling accident on Riverside Drive. The committee celebrated the adoption of her proposal for "bicycle safety zones" by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (DOT), resulting in new signage along Riverside Drive alerting drivers to high cycling activity. The committee will continue supporting this initiative, collaborating with Asheville on Bikes and Mayor Jim to advocate for wider implementation.

The meeting also dedicated considerable time to the "Walk Bike Woodfin" plan, a comprehensive strategy for improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure throughout the township. Key priority projects were identified, including multi-use paths on Merriman Avenue and Weaverville Highway, sidewalks and bike lanes on Elk Mountain Road, improvements to Jonestown Road, and connectivity enhancements along Riverside Drive. To effectively manage the plan's implementation, the committee voted to form two subcommittees: a Policy, Plan & Project Subcommittee focused on advancing priority projects and a separate Education & Outreach Subcommittee dedicated to community engagement and partnerships. Committee members were assigned to these subcommittees, with initial meetings scheduled in the coming weeks.

Finally, updates were provided on ongoing park projects. Bids for Silverline Park repairs are currently being advertised with an anticipated completion date in the fall of 2026, leveraging FEMA funding and pending approval for additional Buncombe County support. Discussions are underway regarding the construction of a wave pool at Riverside Park and coordinating with DOT's plans to replace the Old Lesser Highway Bridge, which will impact park access. The committee also noted the removal of an old "mister" feature and the recent installation of new benches, completing several planned park improvements.

What's Next for Woodfin Residents? Keep an eye out for information from the township regarding bear safety tips and educational resources. Follow progress on the "Walk Bike Woodfin" plan, particularly as bicycle safety zones are implemented. And stay informed about the ongoing construction projects at Silverline Park and Riverside Park through official town channels. These initiatives represent a significant investment in Woodfin's safety, accessibility, and quality of life.