In the spring 2019, construction of the French Broad River Greenway West is scheduled to begin. This property is located along the French Broad River between New Belgium Brewing and the French Broad River Park.
In advance of construction, the City of Asheville is closing the future greenway and it will remain closed until construction is complete. Signs have been posted at either end of the 48-acre property to inform visitors of this project area closure.
In order to prepare the site for the future greenway construction, the City must secure the area and close an existing homeless campsite in a sensitive and appropriate manner. The City is working with the help of an area nonprofit, Homeward Bound, to perform outreach to the campers and provide connection to area service providers. This includes short-term case management, including assistance with basic needs, community resources and housing options.
At the end of Homeward Bounds’ outreach, the City will then implement its policy on homeless camps. This policy states that the Asheville Police Department will enter the site and provide an official seven day notice to clear the area. Homeward Bound often accompanies APD to provide information about area resources. At the end of the seven days, APD responds back to the camp location and takes enforcement action as needed.
After the camp is closed, the area will be cleaned up and the City’s park wardens will begin monitoring the site regularly.
Residents can anticipate construction of the greenway to last approximately 12 months. This section of the French Broad River West Greenway corridor will complete the one-mile gap between the New Belgium Brewery and the French Broad River Park. Completion of this section of greenway will create 4.35 miles of continuous greenways.
Related: Asheville Police Department Policy Regarding Homeless Persons