# Design Review Committee (In-Person) (Jul 17, 2025)

**Body:** City of Asheville — Design Review Committee
**Date:** July 17, 2025 12:30 PM EDT (2025-07-17T12:30:00-04:00)
**Location:** 70 Court Plaza, Asheville, NC 28801, USA

**Link:** https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761

## Summary

On July 17, 2025, the City of Asheville Design Review Committee (DRC) held an in-person meeting to conduct a formal advisory review of the Wall Street Gateway Signage project. The DRC is responsible for reviewing design projects within designated areas of Asheville, including downtown, the riverfront, and hotel overlay zoning districts. The committee’s primary role in this instance was to provide feedback on the proposed signage, which will inform the city staff’s administrative approval process.

The only formal vote taken at the meeting was the approval of the minutes from the June 18, 2025, meeting, which passed unanimously with a 5-0 vote. No formal vote was taken to approve or reject the Wall Street Gateway Signage design itself; instead, the committee provided extensive feedback on the proposal.

The main discussion centered on a proposal by Explore Asheville, in collaboration with the city and Wall Street businesses, to install two signs at pedestrian entry points to Wall Street. The signs are intended to enhance visibility, encourage foot traffic, and contribute to a sense of place within the corridor. Staff explained that the project is being reviewed under a new "Public Space Enhancement Process" developed for projects on city-owned property, as it falls outside existing approval structures. Kimberly Puryear of Explore Asheville provided background on the broader wayfinding program, while William Disson of the Wall Street Business Association spoke in support of the project, emphasizing the need for revitalization efforts to enhance the street's appeal for residents and tourists.

Committee members offered constructive criticism regarding the design concepts presented by the design firm, Merge. Key points of debate included the "whimsical" nature of the design, particularly a heart element, and whether it aligns with Wall Street’s historic, timeless character. Members also discussed the integration of the signage with existing infrastructure, such as pole design and visibility, and questioned whether the aesthetic truly captures the "Paris of the South" feel of the area. The committee expressed a desire for signage that is visually appealing while remaining consistent with the street’s historic identity.

Regarding next steps, staff indicated that Explore Asheville and Merge will take the committee’s feedback into consideration to potentially revise the signage design. City staff will continue to review the project to ensure it meets technical and safety standards. Staff also noted that they may schedule a called meeting if revisions are needed to meet the September installation timeline. No specific action items were assigned to individual committee members regarding the review.

This review is significant for residents as it addresses the visual identity and pedestrian experience of the Wall Street corridor. The committee’s feedback will directly influence the final design of the gateway features, ensuring they align with the community’s vision for the area’s historic character and public space.

## Agenda

- [Approval of minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting.](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761/item/3852)
- [Wall Street Gateway Signage](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761/item/3853)
- [Public Comment](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761/item/21830)
- [Meeting adjourned](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761/item/3854)

## Votes

- Approval of the June 18, 2025 minutes — Passed, 5-0

## Video & Transcript

- Recording: https://www.youtube.com/live/SOl14Qo9K8E?si=dDw2fpOuyNP1BTcU
- Transcript: https://sunshinemeetings.org/transcript/655/segments

## Documents

- [DRC Staff Report - Wall Street Gateway.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761?document=9939)
- [DRC Action Minutes 7-17-25.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761?document=2030)
- [agenda_2025-07-17.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761?document=2008)
- [minutes_2025-07-17.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761?document=2017)
- [ecferrari email.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761?document=9938)
- [Concept Plans.pdf](https://sunshinemeetings.org/event/761?document=9940)

## Sources

- [City of Asheville WordPress](https://www.ashevillenc.gov/government/meetings/canceled-design-review-committee-in-person-jul-17-2025/)