City unveils plans for park restoration and municipal golf course funding

Asheville City Council's recent budget work session on April 8, 2025, highlighted critical discussions surrounding the city's recovery projects and community concerns about environmental impacts and economic support.

A key focus was on the restoration of parks, particularly those near the French Broad River, where residents expressed worries about the removal of trees that seemed unnecessary. City officials assured the public that restoration efforts, including replanting trees and enhancing riparian zones, would be integral to project designs. "We should certainly want to add back to that tree canopy where it was removed or destroyed," a council member stated, emphasizing the commitment to restoring the natural landscape.

Another significant topic was the prioritization of funding for various projects, including the municipal golf course, which some community members felt was advancing too quickly compared to business grants and rental assistance. Officials clarified that these projects are funded through different sources, specifically noting that the golf course improvements are part of a separate pool of funds designated for recovery efforts. "This is not the CDBG Doctor funds," they explained, highlighting the distinct financial pathways for various initiatives.

The session also underscored the pressing need for job creation in the wake of economic uncertainty. With many residents out of work and new graduates entering the job market, the council pointed out that construction recovery projects would provide numerous employment opportunities. "If anyone's paying attention right now... our IBEW electrical workers have apprenticeships. Spots are open now," a council member encouraged, urging community members to take advantage of available job training programs.

Overall, the meeting reinforced the city's commitment to balancing environmental restoration with economic recovery, ensuring that community needs are addressed as Asheville moves forward with its recovery projects.