2023.08.09 Woodfin PGAC Meeting

Woodfin PGAC Meeting Recap: August 9, 2023 – Progress on Parks, Recreation & Regional Connections

The Woodfin Planning and Growth Advisory Committee (PGAC) convened on August 9, 2023, to discuss ongoing projects shaping the future of Woodfin. The meeting provided updates on several key initiatives, including park development, recreational opportunities, and a significant regional greenway project. While no formal votes were taken, the discussions highlighted progress and outlined next steps for residents to watch.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to welcoming Christina DePush, President of the Asheville Pickleball Association (APA). Ms. DePush presented on the APA's mission, emphasizing their commitment to fostering a vibrant pickleball community and partnering with Woodfin to develop facilities. This presentation signaled a potential collaboration that could enhance recreational offerings for Woodfin residents and potentially attract visitors interested in the increasingly popular sport.

Beyond pickleball, the PGAC received updates on several major projects. Discussions centered around the Silver Line Park Master Plan, with interviews scheduled for late August to select a firm that will lead its development. The Riverside Park project was also reviewed, with attention given to signage, the upcoming Old Lesser Highway Bridge Replacement (projected start in May 2025), and the Taylor's WAVE project – a community recreation area designed to honor a local family. The meeting underscored the need for coordination with various agencies including the Department of Transportation, Norfolk Southern, and FEMA to ensure a smooth process. Finally, John Douglas delivered a detailed presentation on the Woodfin Greenway and Blueway project, emphasizing its regional importance as part of Asheville’s greenway system. Douglas highlighted the potential for attracting visitors and enhancing community life through this ambitious $32 million initiative, which also incorporates a "Blueway" concept for recreational river use.

Community input was provided by a Woodfin resident who noted receiving information regarding the Old Lesser Highway Bridge Replacement from Buncombe County earlier than what was shared at the PGAC meeting, highlighting a potential communication gap.

Looking ahead, several key action items were identified for the town to pursue: interviews will be conducted for the Silver Line Park Master Plan, permitting documents need resubmission to state agencies, and negotiations with Norfolk Southern are ongoing regarding a temporary construction easement. The Taylor’s WAVE Task Force is finalizing drafts of user and event policies for review in September, while the town will investigate the status of their application for an AmeriCorps volunteer coordinator to support the Greenway and Blueway project. The goal is to issue bid documents for construction in September, pending permit approvals.

This meeting demonstrated Woodfin's ongoing commitment to improving parks, recreation and regional connectivity. Residents can expect further updates on these projects in the coming months, with opportunities to provide input as plans develop. The potential partnership with the Asheville Pickleball Association and the ambitious Greenway/Blueway project represent exciting opportunities to enhance Woodfin’s quality of life and attract visitors.