Helene Recovery Updates - JULY 9, 2025 - County Briefing

Helene Recovery Update: Progress, Partnerships, and Planning for the Future

The Buncombe County government held a briefing on July 9, 2025, to provide an update on the ongoing recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene, which devastated Asheville and surrounding areas 289 days ago. The meeting also included a moment of solidarity with other communities currently grappling with severe flooding, acknowledging the shared challenges faced by residents in Texas, North Carolina, and New Mexico. This update aimed to inform the public on progress made, ongoing challenges, and future plans for rebuilding a stronger, more resilient Asheville.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on debris removal, a critical step in the recovery process. Officials reported that 870,233 cubic yards of storm debris have been collected to date, with a substantial portion (295,094 cubic yards) cleared from waterways. While the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed its work within city limits and parks, ongoing efforts are focused on Richmond Hill Park, Meek Creek Greenway, and Riverside Cemetery. City Sanitation will continue to manage debris removal from public rights-of-way. Beyond the immediate cleanup, discussions highlighted encouraging signs of economic recovery in downtown Asheville. Increased attendance at events at the Harris Cherokee Center (a 36% increase compared to last year) and successful initiatives by the Asheville Downtown Improvement District and Downtown Association, like "Downtown After Five" events, are contributing to a revitalization of the area.

Recognizing that recovery requires more than just physical cleanup, the city is partnering with the Urban Land Institute (ULI) to develop comprehensive recommendations for economic recovery and resilience. This collaboration will focus on addressing challenges in flooded commercial districts, supporting workforce development initiatives, and carefully considering land use within floodplains. To ensure community voices are heard in this process, the city is hosting two public engagement opportunities: a "Meet & Greet" on July 28th at the Harris Cherokee Center, and a panel presentation on August 1st at Harrah’s Banquet Hall (also streamed live). City Manager Deborah Campbell emphasized the importance of these opportunities, encouraging residents to participate and share their insights.

Beyond addressing long-term challenges, the meeting also highlighted some immediate improvements for residents. A temporary dog park has opened in Riverbend Park, providing a much-needed space for pet owners while permanent parks are being rebuilt – a process expected to take several years. A grand opening celebration is scheduled for July 15th, and a temporary disc golf course will open at the Asheville Municipal Golf Course on August 1st.

What's Next? The city is developing a long-term recovery plan, incorporating the ULI’s recommendations. A full report detailing these recommendations will be published on ashfallrecovers.org later this year. Residents can expect continued debris removal efforts, opportunities to engage in the ULI planning process, and ongoing support for downtown businesses. City Manager Campbell expressed her gratitude to residents for their unwavering support and acknowledged the vital contributions of partners including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Downtown Association, Asheville Downtown Improvement District, HCA Health Care’s Mission Health and the city council. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to rebuilding a stronger, more resilient Asheville for all residents.