Happening Now

The design phase for the Coxe Avenue Streetscape project is approaching its conclusion. The project team is diligently refining the plans to integrate critical stormwater upgrades, utility infrastructure, and multi-modal safety improvements.

Underground survey work continues, and impacts will be communicated accordingly. 

Following design completion, the North Carolina Department of Transportation will review the plans and approve the project before we can proceed with construction. Currently, construction is scheduled to start in 2027. 

Background

Coxe Avenue is an important transportation, retail and entertainment corridor connecting Downtown’s historic core and South Slope, as well as other areas including the hospital district, McCormick Field and the Southside neighborhood. The street is heavily trafficked but is incomplete with regard to bicycle facilities, sidewalk facilities, accessibility and driveway access control, which all impact the safety of those utilizing the corridor. This project will meet City goals for multimodal transportation, accessibility and general safety by delivering improvements that accommodate businesses, pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists while also providing on-street parking and streetscape features including lighting, street trees and seating.

Underground Utility Needs

There is also a significant need for stormwater infrastructure improvements on Coxe Avenue, which will be addressed with this project. Coxe Avenue is sloped (giving the area the nickname of “South Slope”) and carries much of the surrounding area’s stormwater to its next destination, the Nasty Branch Creek. Originally a ravine, in the early 1900s Coxe Avenue was filled in with dirt in order to develop the street. Today, there are various drainage channels underground and an insufficient stormwater system that results in poor drainage and significant pooling in some areas during heavy rain.

Another component of this project includes the installation of about 3,000 feet of new 12-inch water main and associated infrastructure. The new water main will replace existing 6-inch cast iron water lines that are reaching the end of their useful life. This upgrade will reduce route conflicts and increase water capacity for the rapidly growing area.  

Combining the stormwater and water improvements with the overall streetscape project will means better project coordination and cost savings.

Community Engagement

Conceptual designs for the project were produced as a part of the South Slope Vision Plan process, which included a community engagement effort guided by an advisory team made up of stakeholders including area business owners and residents. In 2018, a “Tactical Urbanism” project tested temporary changes to the street between Hilliard Avenue and Southside Avenue, which will also inform the design. 

An open house was held on March 24, 2025 to allow for community viewing of design renderings. See: Open House Presentation Slide Show and Design Renderings. 

Coxe Streetscape Open House Gallery: March 24, 2025

Supporting Documents

South Slope Vision Plan

Asheville on Bikes Tactical Urbanism Project 

Living Asheville Comprehensive Plan

Close the GAP Plan

Downtown Master Plan

South Slope Neighborhood Association Plan on a Page