Asheville City Council updates debris removal progress post-storm with federal assistance

In the heart of Asheville's city hall, a sense of urgency filled the air as city officials gathered to discuss the ongoing debris removal efforts following a recent disaster. Jess, a key figure in the recovery operations, presented a comprehensive update that highlighted significant progress made since the initial response began in October.

The meeting revealed that the city has made remarkable strides in clearing debris, thanks in large part to direct federal assistance. Jess noted that while the initial estimates suggested a lengthy recovery period of up to two years, recent efforts have accelerated the timeline considerably. The right-of-way operations are nearing completion, with the final punch list being addressed, while private property debris removal (PPDR) is set to wrap up by June 30.

As the presentation unfolded, it became clear that the scale of the disaster was immense, with an estimated three million cubic yards of debris needing removal. To date, over 700,000 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris, along with more than 20,000 tons of mud and soil, have been cleared. The city has also launched a public storm debris dashboard to keep residents informed about the progress.

The discussion also touched on the complexities of the debris removal process, particularly concerning waterways. Jess explained that while larger hazardous debris is being prioritized, smaller items will be addressed through community volunteer initiatives. The city is collaborating with nonprofit groups to mobilize efforts for a thorough cleanup.

In a notable development, the city has entered into an interlocal agreement with Buncombe County to streamline the PPDR process, which includes options for residents to request demolition of unsafe structures on their properties. This initiative is expected to begin in mid to late May, with around 30 structures targeted for removal.

As the meeting progressed, concerns regarding the cleanup of Harmony Creek were raised. City staff assured council members that they are actively engaging with community representatives to address specific issues and ensure the cleanup is conducted sensitively and effectively.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to recovery and community engagement. With ongoing efforts and a clear timeline in place, Asheville is steadily moving towards a cleaner and safer environment for its residents. As the debris removal operations continue, the collaboration between city officials, residents, and community organizations remains vital in navigating the path to recovery.