Planning & Economic Development – March 11, 2024

Planning & Economic Development Committee Meeting Recap – March 11, 2024

The Planning, Economic Development and Environment Committee convened on March 11, 2024, led by Sage Turner in the absence of Vice Mayor Kilgore. The meeting primarily focused on updates regarding Asheville's transit system (ART) and the ongoing exploration of "Missing Middle Housing" options, aiming to address affordability challenges within the city. While no formal votes were taken, the discussion laid groundwork for future decisions impacting residents and the city's long-term planning.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a Transit Update presented by Jessica Morris and Amber Wagner. The presentation highlighted substantial investments in ART since 2016, but also revealed a growing funding gap exacerbated by COVID-19 impacts and driver shortages. While ridership is recovering, with a 20% increase in the first six months of this year, the city’s aging bus fleet and undersized downtown transit center (ArtPlace) pose significant challenges. Originally budgeted funds for a regional transit master plan with Buncombe County will now be redirected towards a "Comprehensive Operations and Financial Assessment" (COA) of ART, evaluating performance and identifying improvements. Committee members emphasized the need for data-driven decisions that align transit goals with broader community needs, including addressing issues like homelessness. Concerns were raised regarding the timeline for the COA and ensuring it translates into tangible improvements rather than further planning exercises.

The second major focus was on recommendations for Missing Middle Housing, a strategy to increase housing options and affordability. Staff presented a phased approach to updating the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), beginning with allowing flag lots, cottage developments, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and small backyard lots in April. Subsequent phases will explore broader changes like duplexes city-wide, incentives for middle housing development, and revisions to parking requirements. A key point of discussion revolved around the proposed "small backyard lot" concept, which would allow existing properties to be subdivided into smaller, more affordable homes. Barry Bialik, chair of the Affordable Housing Committee, passionately advocated for expanding housing choices, drawing on Durham's experience and cautioning against restrictions in historic neighborhoods.

Public comment was limited but impactful, with Bialik providing a detailed perspective on the Missing Middle Housing initiative. He emphasized that increased housing supply, even through smaller units, can help address affordability challenges and highlighted the importance of anti-displacement strategies.

Looking ahead, several key action items emerged from the meeting. City Council will be presented with a proposal for the COA, and staff will draft requests for proposals (RFPs) related to both the COA and a transit contract rebid. Enterprise, a consulting firm, will host a community meeting on March 27th to discuss findings from their affordable housing plan, including anti-displacement strategies. Finally, staff will continue engaging with the community and exploring partnerships to tackle transit funding challenges.

This meeting underscored the complex challenges facing Asheville's planning and economic development efforts, particularly concerning transit funding and housing affordability. The discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach that balances community concerns with long-term goals, ensuring that any changes made truly benefit residents and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for the city. Residents can expect further engagement opportunities as these initiatives progress, particularly through Enterprise’s community meeting on March 27th.