Gashes Creek Access
Gashes Creek Access
Temporary access has been restored. Please refer to the Azalea Parks and Infrastructure Recovery project for information on the permanent restoration of the Gashes Creek Bridge.
In September 2024, Tropical Storm Helene caused severe flooding throughout the region. The wash out of Gashes Creek Bridge restricted access to the Gashes Creek neighborhood, Highland Brewing, and the WNC Nature Center, prompting emergency coordination and temporary access planning.
Happening Now
Temporary access has been restored. Please refer to the Azalea Parks and Infrastructure Recovery project for information on the permanent restoration of the Gashes Creek Bridge.
Construction of a temporary road and installation of a traffic signal on Azalea Road were completed in February 2025, restoring access to the Gashes Creek neighborhood, Highland Brewing, and the WNC Nature Center. This temporary solution will ensure safe access while long-term plans for permanent infrastructure improvements are developed. Additionally, City staff restored two-way traffic as a temporary solution on Azalea Road.
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Background
Following significant flooding along the Swannanoa River and Gashes Creek in late September 2024 due to Tropical Storm Helene, access to the Gashes Creek neighborhood, Highland Brewing, and the WNC Nature Center was severely restricted. In collaboration with Highland Brewing, the City worked to establish temporary access routes while Public Works crews addressed critical infrastructure repairs. By November 2024, repairs were completed on Gashes Creek Road and the Azalea Road bridge, and planning for temporary and long-term access began. Construction of a temporary road and traffic signal commenced in January 2025, with a formal agreement approved by City Council to ensure safe public access. The temporary road and traffic signal are scheduled to be operational by February 2025, providing restored connectivity to impacted areas.
More information on the FEMA Public Assistance process was presented to the City Council at the January 14, 2025 meeting. The presentation was given by Capital Management Director Jade Dundas.
Past Updates
Contact
Jessica Hughes
Communications Specialist
Communications & Public Engagement
City of Asheville
jhughes@ashevillenc.gov