Design Review Committee – July 18, 2024

Design Review Committee Meeting Recap – July 18, 2024

The Design Review Committee (DRC) convened on July 18, 2024, to evaluate design proposals impacting key areas of Asheville: downtown, the riverfront, and a newly designated hotel overlay zoning district. The meeting was open to the public and livestreamed for broad accessibility, demonstrating a commitment to transparency in city planning. This recap summarizes the key outcomes and discussions for Asheville residents.

The primary focus of the meeting centered on Duke Energy’s proposal for a temporary substation located at 252 Patton Avenue. This project is part of a larger infrastructure upgrade involving utility work and the eventual construction of a permanent substation on Rankin Street. The proposed temporary substation would consist of an open-air structure with transmission poles reaching up to 100 feet in height, secured by an eight-foot chain link fence topped with razor wire. The committee engaged in a thorough discussion, encouraging Duke Energy to explore more visually appealing alternatives for the fence screening, potentially incorporating graphics or public art. Concerns were also raised about a grassy area adjacent to the substation and the potential for people to gather there, prompting suggestions for proactive measures to address this. Ultimately, the committee voted to recommend approval of the project, contingent on Duke Energy exploring creative fence screening options and addressing concerns about public congregation. The proposal will now move forward to the Planning and Zoning Commission, followed by City Council for final approval. Duke Energy clarified that this temporary substation is expected to operate for approximately two years, providing a timeline for the community.

Beyond the Duke Energy proposal, the committee also addressed internal matters. They approved revisions to their own rules of procedure, streamlining the process for adopting rule changes and clarifying guidelines regarding member attendance and recusal processes to align with city-wide standards. This update ensures the committee operates efficiently and adheres to established protocols, enhancing its effectiveness in reviewing design projects.

While no public comment was received during the meeting, a notable point of discussion arose from a committee member regarding persistent issues with uncovered dumpsters near new construction projects on Haywood Street and Carter Avenue. This highlighted a concern about the visual impact of these amenities in prominent locations, prompting a commitment from the committee to investigate and explore potential solutions. Staff will now look into this matter, demonstrating a responsiveness to community concerns beyond the immediate design review agenda.

Looking ahead, several key action items have been identified. Duke Energy will collaborate with Rachel Taylor from the Economic Development Department to develop sample graphic screening options for the fence surrounding the temporary substation. The committee will also investigate the dumpster issues raised, seeking ways to improve aesthetics and address concerns about visual blight. The Patton Avenue temporary substation proposal will proceed through the Planning and Zoning Commission before ultimately reaching City Council for final approval, marking a significant step in the city’s infrastructure development.