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

Community Visioning Session

On June 17, 2025, Community Facilitators hosted a conceptual design-focused community visioning session and breakfast at Stephens-Lee Recreation Center with elders and those with deep roots and connection to Black life in Asheville. 

The session was attended by 10 active community members and focused on generating ideas for the key design elements and priorities of the cultural corridor and gateway project. We engaged community members and stakeholders in discussions centered around the following questions:

• What history and current reality do we want to center in the design?
• When residents and visitors come to The Block, what are the stories and who are the people that you want them to know, understand, and remember?
• In the spirit of Reclamation, what do you want Black folks to believe about themselves when they’re on The Block?

Other Project Activities:

• Co-sponsored Juneteenth on The Block. There are now project signs located throughout Market Street with a QR code to visit and subscribe to the project PublicInput page. 
• Generating ideas for The Block's structural enhancements. Connecting with community stakeholders, businesses, and nonprofit organizations.
• Continued planning and scoping to prepare for  contracting with a professional services firm to facilitate a formal design process and ultimately construction of a gateway/public space engagements.

Upcoming Engagement Opportunities

• July: Children & youth-focused visioning session(s). Details forthcoming.

An opportunity to give your feedback:

As we continue engaging the community around the conceptual design for the gateway/cultural corridor, we invite you to take a moment and complete the survey here. The first 25 people to complete the survey will receive a $5 gift card! 

As always, thank you for your continued support and partnership in revitalizing our community, block by block.

With gratitude, Your Boosting the Block Community Facilitators, 

Margaret A. Brunson, PhD, MPA

Brittany Bennett Weston, MPA