The Latest
Recent statistics show a year on year reduction in property and violent crimes
At City Council's Environment and Safety Committee meeting held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, Police Chief Mike Lamb and Captain Aardema provided updates on city-wide crime statics for the first quarter of the year compared with the same quarter in 2023.
Statistics show an overall decrease in property crimes and violent crimes. Captain Aardema attributed much of that success to a continued focus on data-driven, pro-active policing efforts and community engagement. Read more here or view a recording of the presentation here.
City staff participate in Spring Sweep litter clean up downtown
On Wednesday, April 24, 2024, City staff participated in a litter clean-up downtown as part of the Spring Sweep initiative and partnership between the City of Asheville and Asheville GreenWorks. Volunteers across the city participated in community clean-up efforts in April as part of a Local Spring Sweep organized by Asheville GreenWorks and a Spring Litter Sweep organized by NCDOT.
Thanks to all of the volunteers, and to everyone that helps keep our city litter-free throughout the year. You can get support from Asheville GreenWorks for a DIY clean-up here.
Upcoming City Council consideration of proposed Downtown Business Improvement District
City Council heard presentations at their March 26, 2024 and April 23, 2024 meetings on a proposed Business Improvement District (BID) - known statutorily in NC as a Municipal Service District (MSD) - for downtown Asheville. The Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce worked with Progressive Urban Management Associates (PUMA) and downtown stakeholders on the proposal. A public hearing was held on April 23. Find recordings below.
In addition, the Downtown Commission held a meeting focused on the proposed Business Improvement District at their April 26, 2024 meeting. There was not an approved motion for a specific recommendation to City Council. View a recording of the discussion here.
City Council is scheduled to vote on establishment of a BID on May 14 (first ordinance reading) and June 11 (second ordinance reading). Find Council agendas on this page.
Downtown Restroom progress: what to know
Construction of a new downtown restroom facility is well underway. Trees were pruned on the site in late March, and the first phase of construction started on April 15 involving utility and site work. This phase is expected to be completed in early July.
Here are some impacts to be aware of:
- Fencing is installed around the site to ensure safety on the premises.
- While the contractor is working on site, the vehicular and pedestrian entry/exit from Rankin Avenue Parking Garage onto College Street is closed. After work is completed each week, the College Street entry/exit to the Rankin Garage is reopened for the weekend.
- The contractor’s weekly site work ends on either Thursday or Friday, depending on construction scheduling.
The City is also coordinating with Duke Energy on new street lights as well as new lighting within the site. Security cameras will also be added to the site (attached to the Rankin Garage) and are planned for installation in May.
Next phase: the restroom facility arrives
In late July, the Portland Loo restroom will be delivered via crane, followed by an estimated two weeks of installation and inspection work before the restroom is opened to the public.
Find more details about the project here and check the project page for the latest updates.
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