2022.02.10 CP Public Input Session

Woodfin Residents Shape the Future: Recap of Comprehensive Planning Public Input Session

On February 10, 2022, the town of Woodfin held a virtual public input session as part of its ongoing comprehensive planning effort – a process designed to guide the town's growth and development over the next 10-20 years. The session, led by Gerald Green of JMT Engineering and Planning, provided a valuable opportunity for residents to learn about the planning process and share their vision for Woodfin’s future. While no formal votes were taken, the meeting generated significant discussion and valuable feedback that will directly influence the final plan.

A major focus of the session was presenting an overview of the comprehensive planning process and sharing preliminary results from a recent community survey. Residents overwhelmingly identified protecting natural resources, managing population growth responsibly, and improving transportation infrastructure as top priorities. Concerns were also voiced regarding pedestrian safety, the need for affordable housing options, and managing bear-related issues through improved trash management. The presentation also included a draft vision statement – "A small mountain town with a strong, vibrant population that cherishes community, embraces the natural beauty around it, supports and encourages the success of local business, and fosters artistic creativity" – which is currently under review.

The discussion was lively, with residents engaging in robust debate on several key topics. A significant portion of the conversation centered around balancing the need for new housing with concerns about parking and development density. Many expressed a desire to avoid overly dense developments while exploring opportunities for mixed-use development along Weaverville Highway, envisioning a revitalized "Main Street" corridor with improved pedestrian access. Other notable discussions included the need for better pedestrian infrastructure and bike lanes, addressing traffic flow issues at the I-26/Newstock Road interchange, and reviewing current code enforcement practices.

Community input was a cornerstone of the session. Residents consistently emphasized their desire to preserve Woodfin’s small-town character and green spaces, highlighting the importance of maintaining a strong sense of community. Several individuals spoke passionately about the need for affordable housing options to ensure Woodfin remains accessible to a diverse range of residents. Concerns about nuisance violations and responsible code enforcement were also frequently raised, demonstrating a desire for proactive solutions to these ongoing issues.

Looking ahead, several key action items emerged from the meeting. The planning team will continue gathering community input through ongoing surveys and drop-in events, as well as conducting stakeholder interviews. They will also be drafting the plan's introduction and background sections, developing a future land use map for community review, and exploring options to improve the I-26/Newstock Road interchange with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Importantly, discussions will continue regarding revisions to zoning ordinances to promote affordable housing and other desired developments.

This public input session was a crucial step in the comprehensive planning process, demonstrating Woodfin’s commitment to community engagement and ensuring that the final plan reflects the values and priorities of its residents. The feedback gathered will play a vital role in shaping Woodfin’s future, guiding decisions about land use, transportation, housing, and overall quality of life for years to come. Residents are encouraged to stay involved in the process through upcoming events and opportunities to provide feedback.