Stone Bridge Advisory Committee 1/20/26

Stone Bridge Advisory Committee Kicks Off Planning for Hurricane Helene Bridge Improvements

The Stone Bridge Advisory Committee held its inaugural meeting on January 20, 2026, marking the beginning of a crucial project to address bridge repairs and improvements across Montreat following damage sustained during Hurricane Helene. The meeting, attended by committee members and town staff, focused on establishing the committee’s groundwork and outlining initial steps for a project that will significantly impact Montreat's infrastructure.

A key focus of the meeting was establishing leadership and operational procedures. Beth [Last Name] was elected as Chair, with Maury Gramling serving as Secretary, and John Casper designated as a staff liaison to ensure clear communication between the committee and town government. The committee unanimously approved its agenda, rules, and procedures, including a provision allowing for amendments through majority vote. A significant discussion centered on the committee's role in securing funding, recognizing the Cottagers organization’s unique ability to fundraise – a capability that complements the town's own limited resources. The committee will work closely with the Cottagers to guide fundraising efforts and ensure funds are strategically allocated for bridge improvements.

A substantial portion of the meeting was dedicated to defining "Montreat style" as it pertains to bridge design. Recognizing the importance of preserving Montreat’s unique aesthetic, the committee is collaborating with historian Dale Slusser and Nancy Thomas to research historical architectural features of local stone structures. A presentation outlining this research is expected at the committee's next meeting, scheduled for March 2nd at 10:00 a.m. in Town Hall. Discussions also touched on the practicalities of bridge construction, including bidding processes and regulations surrounding stream bed disturbance. The committee agreed to investigate potential limitations on gathering materials from creek beds, ensuring any construction adheres to environmental guidelines.

The committee identified the Lookout Road bridge as a likely initial project, thanks to existing funding already allocated. Consideration was also given to potentially incorporating the Anderson driveway/community center bridge into a larger, phased project. While there were no public comments during the meeting, committee members discussed strategies for keeping the community informed through town announcements and Cottagers newsletters.

Looking Ahead: Several key action items emerged from the meeting, including: Nancy Thomas and Dale Slusser continuing their research on "Montreat style"; John Casper distributing meeting summaries and rules/procedures to Zoom participants; Beth [Last Name] coordinating with the Cottagers on fundraising and communication; and the committee as a whole investigating regulations related to stream bed disturbance. Residents can expect further updates on this project as the committee progresses in its work, ensuring that any bridge improvements reflect Montreat's character and values.