We’re excited to share that the latest Boosting the Block update has been posted! This update includes important highlights on recent progress, upcoming opportunities for engagement and what’s next for the project.

Read the latest update here: Boosting the Block - PublicInput

This month, we are excited about the progress of the Eagle and Market Street Enhancements project as an important implementation step of the broader Boosting the Block initiative. The capital improvement project aims to improve public spaces, connectivity, cultural storytelling and opportunities for programming in ways that align with the community’s vision. The City of Asheville is in the process of selecting a Design/Engineering team. Find more information and sign up for updates on the Eagle and Market Street Enhancements project page. 

Current Project Focus

While the City of Asheville gears up to kick-off the formal design process for physical streetscape improvements, we are maintaining momentum through the following initiatives:

• Custom Bench Installation: In partnership with Echoes of the Forest, the City of Asheville, YMI Cultural Center, and the Asheville Downtown Improvement District (ADID) we are supporting the process to design and install a signature bench handcrafted by local artisan Kwadwo Som-Pimpong of Crafted Glory.

• Vision Translation: We are collaborating closely with artist Julianna Chioma, who is translating community engagement input into design concepts that will be shared with the contracted design team. These artistic visual materials are intended to inspire and inform the overall streetscape design, and the cultural gateway feature in particular. 

• Neighborhood Identity Banners: We have selected an artist/graphic designer to create and produce light pole banners for The Block. These banners will enhance visibility and identity of The Block, helping portray and celebrate its past, present and future. 

We will continue to regularly share Boosting the Block updates and announcements about engagement events. We invite you to also subscribe to the Eagle Market Streets Enhancements Public Input page for those specific project updates. 

With gratitude, Your Boosting the Block Community Facilitators, 

Margaret A. Brunson, PhD, MPA

Brittany Bennett Weston, MPA