Multimodal Transportation Commission – June 26, 2024

Multimodal Transportation Commission Meeting Recap – June 26, 2024

The City of Asheville’s Multimodal Transportation Commission convened virtually on June 26th, 2024, to discuss ongoing transportation projects, future planning initiatives, and hear from the community. The meeting included updates on existing work, consideration of public recommendations, and planning for future discussions and data collection. Notably, the Commission welcomed newly appointed member Kate Riva while acknowledging the departure of Jake Smith and thanking him for his service. Vice Chair Kenny Armstrong stepped in to lead portions of the meeting, receiving recognition from fellow commissioners.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing public comments regarding the ongoing resurfacing project on Haywood Road. Representatives from Strong Towns Asheville, alongside Mountain True and other residents, presented a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at enhancing safety for all road users – pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders. These proposals included improvements like surface-treated crosswalks for increased visibility, green infrastructure at intersections, clear "Bikes May Use Full Lane" signage, green-painted bike lanes, and buffered lane widths. Following a robust discussion acknowledging the importance of these safety enhancements, the Commission unanimously voted to send a formal letter supporting Strong Towns’ recommendations for incorporation into the Haywood Road project. The Commission also unanimously approved increasing frequency on routes S3 and S6, following a recommendation from the Transit Committee.

Beyond specific project discussions, several key themes emerged during the meeting. Commissioners consistently emphasized the importance of equity in transportation planning, ensuring that improvements benefit all Asheville residents. The need for data-driven decisions was also highlighted, particularly in relation to the Merriman Avenue project. A crucial discussion centered on securing long-term funding for transit initiatives, with City Council Liaison Maggie Ullman raising concerns about potential budget constraints and shifting council priorities. She underscored the necessity of identifying sustainable funding sources and prioritizing a comprehensive operational analysis for transit improvements, a point that resonated with the Commission. The discussion regarding the Patton Avenue Corridor Feasibility Study was postponed to a future meeting.

Looking ahead, the Commission is planning an in-person work session in August, potentially at the Burton Street Community Center. This session will focus on a holistic view of downtown transportation projects, including Cox Avenue, Patton Avenue, and the Nasty Branch Greenway. A field trip to view the Nasty Branch Greenway is under consideration as part of this work session. Furthermore, a plan was approved to conduct an intercept survey on the Wilma Dykeman and Reed Creek Greenways in September, partnering with volunteers from the Active Transportation Committee. This survey will provide valuable data to inform future greenway planning and improvements.

The Multimodal Transportation Commission’s meeting demonstrated a commitment to addressing community concerns, prioritizing safety and equity in transportation planning, and developing a long-term vision for Asheville’s multimodal system. Residents interested in staying informed or participating can visit the City of Asheville's website (replace with actual link) for meeting materials and information. Opportunities to attend future meetings, both virtual and in-person, are also available for those wishing to share their thoughts and ideas directly with the Commission.