Post-Helene update on the Swannanoa River Greenway Project

Construction on the first extension segment of the Swannanoa River Greenway began shortly before Hurricane Helene caused catastrophic flooding and altered the landscape of the Swannanoa River bed and stream banks. 

In the months after the storm, the project area was re-surveyed to determine impacts on existing conditions, and on March 25, 2025, City staff met with FEMA for a site inspection of the greenway, an important step in the process to determine funding eligibility through the FEMA Public Assistance Program. 

A construction re-start date is yet to be determined. However, the City of Asheville continues to be committed to building the Swannanoa River Greenway. In addition to working with FEMA, the project team will explore additional opportunities for restoration of the project area. In the meantime, contractors are actively removing debris from the waterway and rights-of-way. 

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we navigate the Swannanoa River Greenway project through the new lens of storm impact and recovery.