Special Meeting: Multimodal Transportation Commission (Hybrid) (Jun 24, 2026)

Multimodal Transportation Commission Meeting Recap – June 24, 2026

On June 24, 2026, the Multimodal Transportation Commission (MMCC) held a hybrid meeting to discuss significant changes impacting Asheville’s transportation system. The commission, which advises the City of Asheville on all things related to getting around town, focused primarily on two major initiatives: a proposed overhaul of the city's bus system (the Transit Comprehensive Operations Analysis or COA) and an ongoing review of the Traffic Calming Policy. This recap summarizes those discussions, decisions, and what they mean for Asheville residents.

A major focus of the meeting was the proposed redesign of Asheville’s bus system. The current model aims to serve a wide range of areas, but with less frequent service. The new plan proposes shifting resources towards high-frequency routes (every 15 minutes) on key corridors like Biltmore, McDowell, and Hendersonville Road. While this aims to improve efficiency and attract more riders, it would also mean reduced service in areas like Beaver Dam, Grove Park Inn, and West Asheville. The proposal sparked considerable discussion, with public commenters expressing concerns about accessibility for vulnerable populations and potential impacts on residents of Mayhack and the Social Security office. Commissioners echoed these concerns, ultimately voting to support the draft plan "as presented," while encouraging the City Council to explore options for providing some level of service in areas facing potential cuts, specifically a “non-fixed route aspect.” The next step is for the plan to be presented to City Council for review and potential approval, with staff tasked with investigating those alternative service options.

Beyond the bus system, the MMCC also discussed ongoing efforts to update Asheville’s Traffic Calming Policy. The current policy aims to address neighborhood safety concerns, but a recent review revealed opportunities for improvement. Key goals include incorporating more resident feedback (moving beyond petition-based requests), clarifying eligibility for traffic calming measures, expanding the range of available solutions (like speed bumps or roundabouts), and developing a clear scoring system to prioritize streets needing improvements. Public input from a May 2026 open house strongly supported a city-initiated process and expressed interest in a wider range of traffic calming tools. The commission directed staff to conduct a public survey, work with consultants on the prioritization methodology, and present a draft policy to the City Council’s PEDE Committee in the fall. Final adoption is anticipated by winter 2027. Commissioners suggested exploring a city-wide reduction in speed limits, and raised concerns about the limited involvement of a task force already working on this project.

Throughout the meeting, several other items were addressed. The MMCC formally acknowledged and celebrated the passing of "Lenny's Law," which establishes bicycle safety corridors. Commissioners also voiced a desire for improved communication between the MMCC and City Council, suggesting more frequent meetings to ensure alignment on transportation initiatives. Finally, discussions highlighted ongoing funding challenges for transit, with limited revenue generated from corporate partnerships.

The June 24th meeting of the Multimodal Transportation Commission highlighted a commitment to modernizing Asheville’s transportation infrastructure. While changes to the bus system may impact some residents, the commission emphasized a desire to mitigate negative consequences and explore alternative solutions. The ongoing Traffic Calming Policy update aims to create a more responsive system for addressing neighborhood safety concerns, ensuring that resident voices are heard and prioritized. Residents can expect further opportunities to provide feedback on both initiatives as they progress through the City Council approval process.