There is demand to improve 2.2 miles of roads in Asheville’s River Arts District. The improvements will bring tourists, and kick the homeless can down the road somewhere with less creative energy. But it might cost as much as $20 million for streetscaping. This includes acquiring rights of way; in particular, from the very restaurant where Obama ate and photo-opped when he visited Asheville. A federal grant in the amount of $590,000 could evaporate if ground is not soon broken. The city has only budgeted $10 million for “all construction projects” next year. It is hoped members of the public will reach into their pockets, through volition or taxation, to help the vision come to fruition.
by Leslee Kulba
Wild West blogger