Buncombe County officials highlighted urgent school infrastructure needs during the School Capital Fund Commission Meeting on September 29, 2025, revealing a staggering total of $536 million required for essential renovations and upgrades across the district. The meeting focused on a comprehensive list of projects, including roofing repairs, major renovations, and safety enhancements, with a particular emphasis on the escalating costs associated with delaying these initiatives.

The presentation detailed the specific needs of various schools, breaking down projects by high school feeder patterns and county-wide facilities. Notably, the report indicated that if these projects are postponed, costs could soar to $874 million by 2035 due to a projected 5% annual increase in construction expenses. This alarming statistic underscores the financial urgency for immediate action.

Among the most pressing projects is the replacement of roofs at multiple schools, with T.C. Robinson High School serving as a prime example of the current state of disrepair. The visible patchwork of roofing materials illustrates the piecemeal approach taken thus far, which has been driven by budget constraints.

Safety was also a key topic, with officials discussing the need for front office reconfigurations to enhance security measures in schools. A recent incident where a visitor struggled to access a school highlighted the critical nature of these upgrades, reinforcing the call for comprehensive safety improvements across all public schools in the county.

As the meeting concluded, officials expressed their commitment to addressing these urgent needs, emphasizing that timely action is essential to protect students and ensure a safe learning environment. The commission is expected to continue discussions on funding strategies and project timelines in the coming months.