Swannanoa Small Area Plan Steering Committee Meeting
March 16, 2026 at 5:32 PM
Event Recap
Swannanoa Small Area Plan Steering Committee Meeting Recap – March 16, 2026
On March 16, 2026, the Swannanoa Small Area Plan Steering Committee convened for a productive meeting focused on refining the plan and addressing key concerns within the community. This recap summarizes the discussions, decisions, and next steps for residents interested in understanding how this plan will shape Swannanoa's future.
Significant Decisions & Funding Updates: A major highlight of the meeting was confirmation that $979,000 has been secured to fund sidewalk improvements along Woodson Avenue. The committee also discussed future funding opportunities, including a planned request for U.S. 70 improvements between Asheville and Warren Wilson Road. Regarding the railroad portion of the plan, another funding request is anticipated in the near future. A key decision was made regarding sidewalk priorities along U.S. 70, with the committee agreeing to prioritize sections between Asheville and Whitson Avenue, Grovemont, and connecting Owen Park to Whitson. They also designated a thinner line from Woodson to Black Mountain on US 70 as a lower priority.
Key Discussions: Balancing Growth, Safety & Affordability: A significant portion of the meeting centered on navigating challenges related to growth and safety. The committee engaged in a detailed discussion about risks associated with flooding, stormwater runoff, and landslides – particularly relevant given recent storm events. Members explored how to balance new development with these potential hazards, emphasizing the need for a proactive approach. Concerns were also raised about the rising cost of living and potential displacement of local artists, prompting a discussion on how to address affordability challenges within Swannanoa. A debate also took place regarding the vision statement, ultimately resulting in a minor change from “it’s our” to "we are" when referring to Swannanoa's connection to its “Milltown roots.” The committee also reviewed poll results regarding transportation maps, considering how these findings can inform future zoning decisions.
Community Voices Heard: Several committee members shared their observations on pedestrian safety and traffic patterns along U.S. 70, highlighting specific crossing concerns. A resident voiced anxieties about the potential impact of increased tourism on local affordability and Swannanoa’s unique character. These perspectives provided valuable insights into the lived experiences of residents and helped shape the discussion around potential solutions.
What's Next? Action Items & Upcoming Events: Several key action items emerged from the meeting, ensuring progress on critical initiatives. Staff will provide a PDF map of contour lines for further review and discussion. Elizabeth Oderstahl, Economic Development Staff, will continue pursuing additional funding opportunities for U.S. 70 improvements. The hazard vulnerability assessment will be revisited to explore how it can better address displacement concerns and balance development with environmental risks. Finally, residents are strongly encouraged to attend the Owen Park community meeting on March 30th at Owen Middle School, a vital opportunity to contribute to the park's future. The committee will continue reviewing and refining the draft plan in upcoming meetings, prioritizing addressing community concerns.
Why This Matters to You: The Swannanoa Small Area Plan aims to guide the community’s growth and development over the next 20 years. This meeting demonstrated a commitment to creating a plan that reflects community priorities, secures funding for vital improvements like sidewalks and transportation infrastructure, and addresses concerns about affordability, safety, and environmental resilience. By actively participating in upcoming meetings and community events, residents can play a crucial role in shaping the future of Swannanoa.