Landcare Committee readies Flat Creek Crossing work after Accessible Parks grant

The Montreat Landcare Committee said it expects to begin on-the-ground work at Flat Creek Crossing this November, using donations and a three-year grant from Accessible Parks to remove storm sediment and shore up eroded banks.

"It also mentions, the $255,000 something grant from Accessible Parks, which had a 3 year period when we were granted it," Jean, the committee treasurer, said while reviewing donor communications and financial status. Jean said the committee is one year into the grant period and may not need an extension if early work starts as planned.

Committee members described the early-phase work as heavy equipment to remove remaining sediment from Hurricane Helene and placement of large rocks to stabilize banks. Jean said the revised design calls for larger, sun-tolerant plants plus numerous plugs to reestablish vegetation that will slow erosion and spread roots over time.

The group also discussed a downed footbridge at Flat Creek Crossing. Jean said there is conflicting information about whether the bridge is MRA-owned or a town bridge and noted that "MRA has no interest in putting another $100,000 possibly into replacing that footbridge," leaving open whether the town or an outside grant would fund a full accessible replacement.

Options mentioned included a fence in the short term and an additional grant proposal to fund an accessible footbridge and picnic-area restoration. Jean said some of the town's maintenance and stored sediment have been reused and that additional reuse may be possible to reduce costs.

The committee will continue donor outreach and said members will receive future communications about the project; early contractor activity and rock placement could begin before the end of November if weather permits.