Biltmore Village Lighting Recovery Project
Biltmore Village Lighting Recovery Project
After Tropical Storm Helene, many of the light poles in Historic Biltmore Village were submerged in floodwater for several days. This project aims to assess and restore street lighting in the area to improve safety, support economic recovery, and ensure long-term resilience.
The project includes a full assessment of the 92 City-maintained lighting structures and electrical components to develop plans and detailed cost estimates for repairs. A timeline for construction of repairs will be available once the assessment has been completed.
Happening Now
A field assessment is underway to review the extent of damage to lighting infrastructure in Biltmore Village. Upon completion of the assessment, a final report will be produced, which will inform construction timeline and cost.
Background
On September 27, 2024, Tropical Storm Helene struck Asheville, bringing record-setting rainfall and widespread flooding. The storm caused the most extensive flooding in Asheville’s recorded history. In Biltmore Village, floodwaters rose high enough to submerge streetlights for several days, leaving poles filled with mud and damaging underground utility systems.
After Helene, community members around Biltmore Village identified safety and economic recovery as top concerns. Many businesses are experiencing economic hardship and want to make the most of increased foot traffic and tourism during the summer. Lighting plays a key role in safety for:
Tourists and shoppers
Biltmore Village tenants and employees
Residents and commuters
Pedestrians and cyclists
City of Asheville staff, in coordination with Biltmore Village business owners, put temporary lighting solutions in place shortly after the storm. The long-term fix requires full restoration and evaluation of damaged infrastructure.
Funding and Overall Recovery Strategy
The City of Asheville is sequencing recovery projects strategically to ensure an efficient and effective rebuilding process. Cost recovery through federal disaster relief funding programs is essential in making this project possible. The City of Asheville seeks to accomplish this project primarily through the FEMA Public Assistance Program. Additional funding sources may later be identified.
The kick off of the Biltmore Village Lighting Recovery project follows RFQ postings for rebuilding the French Broad Riverfront, repairs to the Municipal Golf Course, and a project to improve water treatment plants. Alongside these relatively complex projects, smaller repairs are being made to other City-owned parks, streets, and facilities. Active examples include roof repairs to the Municipal Building and Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.
In conjunction with storm recovery efforts, the City continues to advance its Capital Improvement Plan as well as bond projects. The integration of these initiatives ensures a coordinated effort to strengthen Asheville’s infrastructure and economic stability.