Design Review Committee – September 19, 2024

Design Review Committee Meeting Recap – September 19, 2024

The Design Review Committee (DRC) convened on September 19, 2024, to evaluate design proposals within designated areas of Asheville: Downtown, Riverfront, and the Hotel Overlay district. All committee members were present except for Stephen Lee Johnson. The meeting was open to the public and streamed live, ensuring transparency and accessibility for residents interested in city development.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on clarifying the DRC’s role and scope of review in relation to the Planning and Zoning (P&Z) Commission. Concerns had been raised by P&Z Commissioners regarding the workload associated with “Level One” reviews conducted by the DRC. Following a robust discussion, the committee unanimously approved a revised position statement that reaffirms their adherence to City Council policy. The statement, which will be sent to P&Z leadership, also expresses the DRC’s willingness to examine evidence provided by P&Z that substantiates their concerns, demonstrating a commitment to collaborative problem-solving.

The primary agenda item was the formal design review of a proposed mixed-use development at 45 Southside Avenue, which would include retail/office space, seven condominiums, and twenty-one hotel rooms. Commissioner Goldstein recused himself due to a financial interest in the property. While acknowledging the project’s potential, committee members raised several key concerns regarding its design and integration into the surrounding neighborhood. These included questions about the viability of the proposed retail spaces, a lack of clear and accessible pedestrian entrances for hotel guests on Southside Avenue, and concerns about the overall design logic of architectural elements like balconies and a roof feature. The committee also emphasized the need for improved stormwater management, including consideration of a green roof, and a more developed plan for the courtyard space along Millard Avenue. A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the importance of ensuring new developments contribute positively to Asheville's streetscape and pedestrian experience.

During the public comment period, residents voiced concerns about the number of parking spaces exceeding residential units and questioned whether this aligns with the city's sustainability goals. Another commenter suggested removing a garage door on Millard Avenue to improve walkability along that street, echoing the committee’s own concerns about pedestrian access. These comments highlighted a broader community interest in ensuring new development prioritizes sustainability and enhances the city’s character.

Looking ahead, several key action items have been identified. Christina Rauch will finalize and distribute the DRC’s position statement on review scope to P&Z leadership. The applicant for 45 Southside Avenue has been tasked with addressing the committee’s feedback and submitting a revised plan, including a rendering of the Millard Avenue side showcasing the proposed courtyard space. The design review for 45 Southside Avenue will be continued at a subsequent meeting on October 17, 2024. Residents can stay informed about the DRC's work by watching recordings of meetings on the City of Asheville’s YouTube channel and reviewing finalized meeting minutes on the city website. This ongoing process aims to ensure that new developments enhance Asheville’s vibrancy and align with the community's vision for a thriving city.